It is with deep concern that I bring to attention the ongoing issue in the Punjab Assembly where Sukhpal Singh Khaira, as an elected Member of the Legislative Assembly, has been systematically denied his constitutional right to speak for over one and a half years. Despite repeated requests and following all procedural protocols, the Honorable Speaker has consistently refused to recognize his right to address the House, effectively silencing the voices of thousands of citizens from his constituency who elected him as their representative.
This unprecedented denial of speaking rights directly undermines the fundamental principles of parliamentary democracy and violates both the letter and spirit of our constitutional framework. While the Speaker does possess discretionary powers to manage House proceedings, these powers are not absolute and must be exercised fairly and impartially. The consistent exclusion of any elected member from participating in legislative discussions for such an extended period constitutes a serious breach of legislative privilege and democratic norms, leaving his constituents without representation in critical debates affecting their lives and livelihoods.