New Delhi [India], October 8 (ANI): Vice-President and Chairman, Rajya Sabha, CP Radhakrishnan has said that dialogue, deliberation, debate, and discussion are basic tenets of parliamentary democracy.

Radhakrishnan, who chaired his maiden meeting with Floor Leaders of political parties of the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, emphasised the importance of ensuring that the Rajya Sabha functions with the dignity, discipline, and decorum it deserves.

He welcomed 29-floor leaders, including Ministers, the Chairman thanked them for their overwhelming response and for their goodwill messages on his assumption of office. He remarked that it was heartening to see leaders from across the political spectrum gathered together at short notice.

Highlighting the opportunities available to Members to raise issues of public concern, the Chairman referred to Zero Hour, Special Mention, and Question Hour as vital instruments that allow Members to bring forth matters of urgent public importance.

He reminded Members that the Constitution of India and the Rules Book of the Rajya Sabha serve as the guiding framework--the Laxman Rekha--for parliamentary discourse. The Chairman reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the rights of all Members within this framework, while stressing the shared responsibility of all to maintain the sanctity of the House.

He urged all Members to utilize every day, every hour, every minute, and every second of the House's time to strengthen the democratic process.

Union Minister and Leader of House JP Nadda initiated the exchange of views, which was followed by interventions from other leaders. The Leader of the House gave thrust on following the high traditions of Parliamentary Procedure while running the House and extended all possible support at his command to ensure smooth conduct of proceedings.

The Floor Leaders of Political Parties, while extending their full cooperation in running the House requested the Chairman to give adequate opportunity to the Opposition Parties to raise their voices in the House through various Parliamentary devices such as Zero Hour, Question Hour, Private Members' Business (PMB), Short Duration Discussions (SDD) and Calling Attention Notices (CAN). (ANI)