Council chairman warns of action if government fails to furnish replies by deadline

Reminding the government of his March 25 deadline for furnishing replies to questions raised by members in the Legislative Council, Chairman Basavaraj Horatti on Tuesday warned that action would follow in cases of non-compliance. He directed the government to ensure adherence to his order.

Raising the issue, JD(S) member S.L. Boje Gowda said many questions remained unanswered each day, alleging that officials were taking the House lightly. With the session nearing its end, departments were still seeking 10 to 15 days, he said, adding that repeated directions from the Chair had not yielded results.

Congress member Puttanna urged the Chair to summon erring officials before the House and order suspension, saying firm action was needed to send a message.

From Belagavi session

Leader of the Opposition Chalavadi Narayanaswamy said replies to questions from the Belagavi session were still pending and expressed concern that current questions too may not be answered, calling for stringent action.

Responding, Mr. Horatti asked the Floor leader, the Leader of the Opposition, chief whips of both sides and JD(S) leaders to meet him after the House proceedings in the evening with details of pending replies. He said he would not allow himself to be seen as an ineffective Chairman and reiterated that action would be taken against officials who fail to respond.