Understanding Unparliamentary Words in Indian Parliament

The functioning of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, the two houses of the Indian Parliament, is governed by rules and traditions designed to ensure smooth proceedings and maintain decorum. One aspect of maintaining decorum involves regulating the language used by Members of Parliament. The Lok Sabha Secretariat periodically releases booklets listing words and expressions that are considered unparliamentary.

Why are Words Declared Unparliamentary?

Words and phrases are deemed unparliamentary if they are considered:

• Offensive or abusive.
• Defamatory or indecent.
• Reflective of poor taste or behaviour.
• Disruptive to the proceedings of the House.
• Casting aspersions on individuals or institutions without proper basis.

The presiding officers (Speaker in Lok Sabha, Chairman in Rajya Sabha) have the authority to expunge such words from the records of Parliament.

Analyzing the Given Words

The question asks which of the given words is NOT declared unparliamentary in the context of a booklet released by the Lok Sabha Secretariat for both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

Let's look at the words provided:

• Shakuni
• Nautanki
• Chakkar
• Girgit

Based on reports and lists of unparliamentary words released over time, words like 'Shakuni', 'Nautanki', and 'Girgit' have been included in the list of expressions considered unparliamentary when used in certain contexts within Parliament. These words are often used metaphorically to criticise or demean opponents, and their use is seen as derogatory or undignified for parliamentary discourse.

• Shakuni: Often used metaphorically to imply cunning, deceit, or instigation of conflict.
• Nautanki: Used to describe someone's actions as dramatic, theatrical, or insincere, implying a lack of seriousness.
• Girgit: Used to liken someone to a chameleon, implying they change loyalties or colours frequently.

The word 'Chakkar', meaning a round, turn, or a complex situation/problem, is generally considered a common Hindi/Urdu word and does not carry the same level of derogatory or offensive connotation in the parliamentary context as the other words listed. Therefore, 'Chakkar' is typically NOT found in the list of words declared unparliamentary.

Thus, among the options provided, 'Chakkar' is the word that is NOT declared unparliamentary according to the context described in the question.

Revision Table: Key Concepts

Additional Information on Parliamentary Decorum

Maintaining decorum and dignity is crucial for the effective functioning of Parliament. The rules regarding language are part of broader rules governing the conduct of Members of Parliament (MPs). These rules cover various aspects, including:

• How MPs should address each other and the chair.
• Rules about interrupting other members.
• Guidelines on relevance and repetition in speeches.
• Prohibition of personal attacks or making unsubstantiated allegations.

The list of unparliamentary words is not static and can be updated periodically based on the usage and evolving standards of parliamentary language. The aim is always to facilitate respectful and constructive debate on matters of national importance within the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.