Source: IE
Context: Monsoon Session’s opening was disrupted due to disagreement on the Manipur discussion format. Govt agreed to a short-duration discussion (under Rule 176), but the Opposition demanded the PM’s suo motu statement followed by a discussion under Rule 267.
| Rule | Rule 267 | Rule 176 |
| Purpose | To suspend any rule’s application related to the day’s listed business and discuss an urgent issue of public importance. | To allow for a short-duration discussion not exceeding two-and-a-half hours on a matter of urgent public importance. |
| Process | An Opposition member can give notice under Rule 267, requesting the suspension of all listed businesses for the day to discuss the urgent matter. If the Chairman consents and the motion is carried, the Rajya Sabha can suspend regular business and devote time to address the pressing issue. | A member can give notice in writing to the Secretary-General, supported by the signatures of at least two other members, stating the specific matter they wish to raise. The Chairman, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, will then fix a date and time for the short-duration discussion. |
| Format | The discussion can suspend all listed businesses, allowing time for in-depth debate. | The discussion is time-bound and limited to two-and-a-half hours. |
| Voting | No formal motion or voting is required. | No formal motion or voting is required. |
| Examples | Discussing the Manipur situation and other urgent matters of public importance. | Discussing the rising prices of essential commodities, border issues with China, etc. |
Recent controversy: The Opposition has expressed concern that none of their notices under Rule 267 are being taken up, even though previous Rajya Sabha Chairmen have allowed such discussions on various subjects.
