The Hindu Business Line : First woman Speaker promises impartial conduct of Lok Sabha

A former foreign service diplomat and Union Minister, the 64-year-old Ms Kumar was elected unanimously after a resolution moved by the UPA Chairperson, Ms Sonia Gandhi, and seconded by the Leader of the House, Mr Pranab Mukherjee, was approved by a voice vote amidst thumping of the desks by the House.

Ms Kumar, who is Congress’ Dalit face, was elected from Sasaram in Bihar in the recent general elections. She is the daughter of the late Jagjivan Ram.

The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, described her election as a historic moment and noted that her services as a distinguished diplomat and as a Union Minister would stand her in good stead in her new onerous job.

Later, addressing a press conference, Ms Kumar said that she would endeavour to be “impartial” while conducting the proceedings in the House. “While giving all members an opportunity to express their views, I will encourage healthy and meaningful debates in the House. When national issues are discussed, party leaders should rise above party considerations,” she noted.

In the 15th Lok Sabha, the number of women members has increased to 58. “This has never been this high. It goes to show that the position of women in the country is getting stronger. But we have a long way to go,” she said.

Two years back, India elected a woman President for the first time. “These are no symbolic gestures. These are indications of genuine intent to make the position of women stronger in India,” Ms Kumar said.

Asked if Parliament can increase the number of working days in a year, Ms Kumar said that she would consult all political parties on this and see how the number of working days could be increased.

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First woman Speaker promises impartial conduct of Lok Sabha