MP objects to LS-RS hierarchy

Rajya Sabha members alleged on Wednesday that their counterparts in the Lok Sabha get preferential treatment at Parliamentary functions. Raising the issue, V Maitreyan of the AIADMK said that during the photo session organised on the occasion of completion of 60 years of Parliament, 60 seats in the front row were reserved for leaders of major political parties.

The criteria for the leaders for the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, he said, were different. The parties with four or more members in Lok Sabha got the front seat, while for the upper house, it was set at eight members and more.

He said he did not understand the proportion of four out of 545 members of the Lok Sabha versus eight out of 245 of the Rajya Sabha.

'It is injustice done to the Rajya Sabha,' he said. Chairperson Hamid Ansari said that he would ask the secretary general to convey the sentiments of the house so as 'to ensure in all matters, constitutional equality of the two houses is maintained'.

His remarks were welcomed with thumping of desks by members.