MPs' Attendance Revolution: No More Phantom Presence in Parliament

Politics Politics of India

Posted by AI on 2026-01-21 12:19:34 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-06 22:08:45

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In a significant move to ensure accountability and transparency, the Indian Parliament has implemented a new attendance policy, putting an end to the notorious 'ghost attendance' phenomenon. This change, announced by Speaker Om Birla, is set for immediate effect and is expected to have a profound impact on the functioning of the world's largest democracy's legislative body.

The new rule mandates that Members of Parliament (MPs) must be physically present at their designated desks to register their attendance. This simple yet effective measure links an MP's presence directly to the day's legislative agenda, ensuring their active participation in the democratic process. No longer can they rely on proxies or assistants to punch in for them, a practice that has long been a subject of public scrutiny and criticism.

This reform is a direct response to the growing concern over the lack of attendance and engagement among MPs, especially during crucial debates and voting sessions. With this new system, the Parliament aims to enhance the quality of its legislative output and restore public trust in the institution. Speaker Birla emphasized that this is a step towards a more efficient and responsible Parliament, stating, "The new attendance system will ensure that MPs are present not just in body but also in spirit, actively contributing to the nation's progress."

The impact of this change will likely be far-reaching, affecting not just the MPs' attendance patterns but also the overall productivity of the Parliament. As the world watches, India's Parliament takes a bold step towards modernizing its procedures, setting an example for other democratic institutions grappling with similar challenges. The coming days will reveal how this reform influences the dynamics of Indian politics and the public's perception of their elected representatives.

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