Rules Introduced Prohibiting Phone Conversations and Disrespect towards Speaker during Assembly Sessions
A draft of the House of Representatives Rules of Procedure 2083 has been prepared, outlining the regulations to be followed during assembly meetings. According to the rules, all members must stand to show respect when the Speaker enters the meeting hall, and the Speaker will take their seat with due honor. Phones must be kept on silent mode during meetings, and strict prohibitions are imposed on taking photographs, as well as audio or video recording. The Speaker holds the authority to take action against any violations.
On 8 Baishakh, Kathmandu – With the draft of the House of Representatives Rules of Procedure 2083 now public, the key provisions are clear. When the Speaker enters the session hall, all members are required to stand to show respect, and the Speaker will assume their position with honor. The Speaker will only leave the hall when the session is adjourned, after which members may also exit. No member is allowed to speak without the Speaker’s permission. When speaking, members must address the Speaker respectfully and only from designated places. Members are prohibited from leaving their seats while the Speaker is speaking and must listen attentively.
The rules mandate that members refrain from passing between the Speaker’s seat and a speaking member. Turning one’s back to the Speaker while seated or standing is strictly forbidden. Any behavior that disrupts the session, causes disturbance, or creates disorder is not allowed. Reading irrelevant material during meetings is prohibited. Phone conversations are completely banned; phones must be set to on silent or vibrate mode. Communication via phone, photography, and audio or video recording during sessions are strictly prohibited. Participants must adhere strictly to these rules.
Members must stand to draw the Speaker’s attention and may speak only after being acknowledged by name or signal. Discussion about the Speaker’s conduct is allowed only when related to official duties; personal criticism is not permitted at other times. Use of obscene, insulting, or morally offensive language is banned. Speech that insults or impacts any individual, caste, religion, language, or gender is also prohibited. The right to speak should not be abused to obstruct the assembly’s work.
Speeches must relate to the matter under discussion in the assembly. Repetition of unrelated points or failure to maintain focus may lead the Speaker to stop the member from speaking or to question them. After being ordered, the member must cease speaking and take their seat. If needed, members may request permission through the Speaker to provide clarifications or convey related information but may not raise controversial issues. The Speaker retains the authority to take appropriate disciplinary actions against any rule violations.