New Delhi

Members from across the political spectrum in the Rajya Sabha on Friday congratulated Harivansh on his re-election as Deputy Chairman for a third term, praising his conduct in the Chair while also urging greater space for Opposition voices and smaller parties.

Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge described Harivansh’s election as historic, noting that he is the first nominated member to hold the post. Kharge said the result reflected Harivansh’s suitability for the office. He also used the occasion to point out that the post of Deputy Speaker in the Lok Sabha has remained vacant since 2019, urging the government to fill the constitutional position.

Tiruchi Siva of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam praised Harivansh as a deserving choice and expressed hope that he would match or surpass the record of Najma Heptulla, who served four terms as Deputy Chairman.

Several members commended Harivansh’s calm handling of heated debates. Subhash Chandra Bose Pilli of the YSR Congress Party said he had ensured orderly proceedings even when the House was sharply divided. M. Thambidurai of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam said a successful presiding officer must understand members’ sentiments.

Manoj Jha of the Rashtriya Janata Dal recalled Harivansh’s association with former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar and urged that smaller parties be given adequate speaking opportunities.

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale congratulated Harivansh and referred to his socialist ideological roots, linking them to the legacies of B. R. Ambedkar and Ram Manohar Lohia. He also called for more debate time for smaller parties.

John Brittas of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) highlighted Harivansh’s background in journalism and his efforts to uphold the dignity of the House.

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Harivansh, a journalist-turned-politician, was elected unopposed earlier in the day, securing a third consecutive term as Deputy Chairman.