Secret Sitting in House

Source:  IE

Context: Discussions have resurfaced on the provision of holding a secret sitting in Lok Sabha as outlined in the parliamentary rules.

• Despite existing rules, India has never officially held a secret sitting, with the closest instance being during the 1962 India-China conflict.

About Secret Sitting of Lok Sabha:

• What it is

• • A secret sitting is a closed-door parliamentary session where discussions are held confidentially, without public or media access.

• Constitutional Provision:

• • The Constitution of India does not directly mention secret sittings, but it empowers Parliament to frame its own rules under Article 118.
    • Chapter 25 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha, specifically Rule 248 mention about Secret Sitting.

• History:

• • Though permitted by law, India has never conducted a secret sitting.
  • In 1962, during the Chinese aggression, the proposal for secret sitting was suggested but declined by PM Jawaharlal Nehru.

• Who can declare a secret sitting:

• • The Leader of the House can request it.
  • The Speaker of the Lok Sabha has the authority to approve and schedule the secret sitting.
  • Secret sitting is allowed in Rajya Sabha as well.
    • It is provided under Rule 266 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha), where the Chairman can permit a secret sitting on a request made by the Leader of the House.

• Features of Secret Sitting:

• • No visitors or outsiders are allowed in the chamber, lobby, or galleries.
  • Proceedings are recorded and published only with the Speaker’s approval.
  • Any unauthorized disclosure is considered a gross breach of privilege.

• Limits:

• • Participants cannot keep notes or publish any part of the discussion.
    • Revealing secret sitting proceedings is considered a gross breach of privilege of the House, leading to disciplinary action.
    • Only with the Speaker’s consent and a passed motion can such information be officially disclosed.