Lok Sabha Adopts Digital Attendance System
From the upcoming Monsoon Session starting July 21, Lok Sabha MPs will mark attendance electronically from their seats, rather than signing in at lobby registers. The new system uses Multimedia Devices (MMDs) installed at each seat to streamline the process.
Speaker Aims To Reduce Lobby Congestion
Speaker Om Birla has driven the change to reduce time spent in crowded lobbies and to discourage MPs from marking attendance without attending proceedings. An offline sign-in option in the lobby will remain temporarily, giving members time to adapt to the new system.
Evolution Of Parliamentary Tech
This development builds on last year’s move, when the Lok Sabha introduced tablet-based attendance using digital pens. Ministers and the Leader of Opposition remain exempt from the new system. Attendance is tied to daily allowances, so accurate marking is important for all members.
Transparency And Accountability
The seat-based system is expected to improve accountability and efficiency in parliamentary operations. It will provide clear data on MP participation and discourage absenteeism, contributing to a more transparent democracy.
Monsoon Session Schedule
The Monsoon Session will run from July 21 to August 21, covering key bills, debates, and budget discussions. With the new attendance system in place, Speaker Birla aims to ensure smoother proceedings and better participation tracking.
