Short Duration Discussion

Any Member desirous of raising discussion on a matter of public importance may give notice in writing 24 hours before the commencement of the sitting to the Secretary specify clearly and precisely the matter to be raised.

Provided further that the notice shall be supported by the signatures of at least two other Members.

(1) If the Speaker is satisfied, after calling for such information from the Member who has given notice and from the Minister as he may consider necessary, that the matter is urgent and is of sufficient importance to be raised in the House at an early date, he may admit the notice:

Provided that if an early opportunity is otherwise available for the discussion of the matter, the Speaker may refuse to admit the notice.

(2) The Speaker may allot two sittings in a week on which such matters may be taken up for discussion and allow such time for discussion not exceeding one hour at or before the end of the sitting, as he may consider appropriate in the circumstances.

There shall be no formal motion before the House nor voting. The Member who has given notice may make a short statement and the Minister shall reply shortly. Any Member who has previously intimated to the Speaker may be permitted to take part in the discussion.

The Speaker may, if he thinks fit, prescribe a time limit for the speeches.