Independent committee proposed for selection to Best MLA award: Speaker Khader

Bengaluru: Speaker of Karnataka Legislative Assembly UT Khader unveiled plans to restructure the process for determining the Best MLA award within the Legislative Assembly. Currently, the selection process is overseen by the chairman; however, the Speaker said he has proposed the formation of a committee comprising esteemed individuals such as ex-speakers, retired judges, and ex-lecturers.

This proposed committee will provide a comprehensive evaluation of an MLA’s performance throughout the year, assessing their legislative contributions and responsiveness to prevalent public issues, he said.

During an interview at Udayavani’s Bengaluru office, Speaker Khader highlighted the need for a more robust and impartial assessment system to acknowledge the exemplary work of MLAs. The proposed committee is anticipated to provide a fair and comprehensive evaluation framework, considering an MLA’s involvement in the legislative process and their initiatives addressing societal concerns, he added.

Additionally, Speaker Khader shed light on the transformation of the Balabrooie Guest House into a dedicated facility for MLAs, adhering to court directives to preserve existing greenery while augmenting the environment with additional saplings. This facility is envisioned to serve as a professional space for MLAs and former legislators, resembling associations for IAS officers, KAS officers, and government employees.

It is designed to offer amenities such as a well-equipped library, reading room, auditorium, cafeteria, and provisions for indoor sports like carrom and chess. Plans for membership fees and office bearers are underway, Khader added.

Furthermore, Speaker Khader emphasized the significance of fostering amicable relationships among political leaders, citing the need for harmony to establish societal peace. He gave a poignant answer to the question of how it is possible for Khader to have the same intimacy with Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat as he does with Congress leaders. “If there is harmony among the leaders, there will be peace in the society. So I am with everyone including Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat… Culture and politics are different. Suspicion and hatred will disappear only when there is trust with everyone,” Khader said.

On the controversial statement by Minister Zameer Ahmed, Khader said, “I have already clarified my stand on the statement made by Minister Zameer Ahmed regarding the Speaker’s position. There should be no discussion on this matter in the House or outside it. Politics should not be mixed into this outside the House.”

Moreover, Khader advocated for longer parliamentary sessions, proposing a 60-day annual session to enable comprehensive discussions on various critical issues. He stressed the need to prioritize discussions on crucial topics such as agriculture, labor concerns, and challenges faced in North Karnataka during the ongoing Belgaum session.

Addressing the conduct and demeanor expected of legislators, Khader underscored that an MLA’s behavior and adherence to procedural norms significantly impact their political trajectory. Expressing confidence and proximity to opposition members, he acknowledged the honor and responsibilities inherent in the Speaker’s position.