Consult Rajya Sabha Over "Drastic Measures": Manmohan Singh On J&K Move

The Rajya Sabha should be given “greater respect by the executive”, and should be consulted before “drastic measures” are taken, like “converting a state into Union Territories and redrawing its boundaries”, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Monday, referring to the government’s move to end special status to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and split it into two union territories. Manmohan Singh also said Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of India, must be thanked for the manner in which the role of the Rajya Sabha, or the upper house of parliament, had evolved.

“The Rajya Sabha is a crucial component of checks and balances of the constituent system. We normally think of checks and balances as an operative term but the role of Rajya Sabha becomes important in a majoritarian system… It is our duty to ensure that no laws are violated in an atmosphere of heightened emotion,” the former prime minister said, speaking during a special debate to mark the 250th session of the Rajya Sabha.

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