The term “Zero Hour” refers to a specific time during the parliamentary proceedings when Members of Parliament (MPs) can raise important issues without prior notice. It is a structured and designated time, distinct from the Question Hour, for MPs to bring attention to urgent matters or pressing concerns. Zero Hour is not explicitly mentioned in the rules of procedure but has become a well-established practice in both the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
1. Timing and Duration:
- Zero Hour typically takes place immediately following the Question Hour during a sitting day.
- Its duration is not fixed, and the time allocated to Zero Hour may vary.
2. No Prior Notice:
- Unlike other parliamentary procedures where advance notice is required, MPs can raise matters during Zero Hour without giving prior notice to the Speaker (Lok Sabha) or Chairman (Rajya Sabha).
3. Scope of Issues:
- MPs often use Zero Hour to bring attention to issues of national importance, matters requiring urgent consideration, or recent events that may not have been scheduled for discussion.
4. Format:
- MPs express their desire to speak during Zero Hour by raising their hands or seeking permission from the presiding officer.
- The issues raised during Zero Hour are generally in the form of brief statements rather than detailed speeches.
5. No Fixed Agenda:
- Unlike the structured Question Hour, there is no predetermined agenda for Zero Hour. The issues raised depend on the MPs’ discretion.
6. Speaker’s/Chairman’s Role:
- The Speaker (in Lok Sabha) or Chairman (in Rajya Sabha) presides over Zero Hour and moderates the proceedings.
- The presiding officer may allow MPs to speak on various issues but can also exercise discretion in maintaining order and relevance.
7. Response from Government:
- After the issues are raised during Zero Hour, the concerned government minister or representative may provide a brief response or assurance.
- Detailed discussions or debates on the raised matters may occur at a later date.
8. Importance:
- Zero Hour provides MPs with an opportunity to highlight emerging and immediate concerns that may not be covered during the regular course of parliamentary business.
While Zero Hour is an important and dynamic part of parliamentary proceedings, it’s essential to note that it is an informal arrangement and not a specific, officially recognized period defined in the rules of procedure. It has become a convention over time, allowing flexibility for MPs to bring attention to time-sensitive issues.
