Job cut out for Meira: How to keep MPs under check-Mon Oct 25 2010, 03:57 hrs

Job cut out for Meira: How to keep MPs under check-

Mon Oct 25 2010, 03:57 hrs

As she oversees preparations for President Barack Obama’s address to members of both Houses of Parliament — scheduled for November 8 — the real challenge for Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar is to prevent a replay of the chaotic scenes that followed former President Bill Clinton address to MPs on March 22, 2000.
While Clinton headed for the Central Hall exit, there was a clamour among MPs to shake hands with him. Some members had even climbed on to their benches to reach up to him. An enterprising member from Tamil Nadu — who had obviously come prepared for achieving the feat — managed to wrap a bright “angvastram” around Clinton’s shoulders. Though Clinton was a big hit, the episode showed members of Parliament of the biggest democracy in poor light.

Sources said a formal advisory to members was unlikely, but informally the leaders of parties may be advised to ensure that the event passes off in a dignified manner. There will be no insistence upon a formal attire, but again, the word is informally out that the members should wear the national dress. The watch and ward staff would be seen in crispier uniform and headgear, the sources said.


Obama will be conducted to the Central Hall in a procession after being received by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Vice-President Mohammad Hamid Ansari and Kumar. President Pratibha Patil will stay away because she comes to the Central Hall for the customary Presidential Address to the joint session of both Houses in February beginning of every year.

President Obama’s wife, Michelle Obama, will be conducted to the venue separately. The Parliament House has acquired a brand new red carpet, which will be unrolled for the first time for Obama.

The path-way up to the Central Hall has been done up afresh. Kumar has personally selected the potted flowers, which will line the route. The Central Hall has been closed to MPs since October 15 to facilitate a complete make-over.

A set of new curtains, fresh carpets, renovation and restoration of the domed roof and polishing of the entire wood-work, including benches and desks, is underway. The the walls of the outer corridor have been given a fresh coat of colours. Daily trial runs are conducted to test back-up systems in case of fire or power failure.

Kumar’s list of invitees includes all former prime ministers and former speakers. They will be seated in the front row as also the chairpersons of UPA and NDA.

The welcome address will be read by Ansari and Kumar will present a vote of thanks. She has opted to speak in Hindi. The proceedings, scheduled to begin at 5.30 pm, will last all of 45 minutes, with half-an-hour set aside for Obama. Teleprompters will be in place to enable Obama to deliver his address.

The Lok Sabha TV has geared up for a live coverage. The channel has planned special programmes on Obama for the entire week ahead of his visit.