Newly elected RS Dy Chairman Harivansh hopes for constructive debate, consensus in Upper House

Newly elected Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh on Thursday exuded confidence that all members of the house will work together and there will be constructive debates on issues.

"Treading on rules and procedures framed by our Constitution makers, we can lead the country to greatness...There would be differences in debates, there would be different opinions... We can find out a way.

"I got this opportunity to be here...I am frightened, surrounded by so many experienced people but this is my strength too as you all will guide me and I assure you I will run the House in a fair and decent manner," news agency PTI quoted him as saying.

He said that people have great hopes from Parliamentarians and they should lead by example. He urged them to follow Gandhian principles. Journalist-turned-politician Harivansh said country has different culture, traditions and under such circumstances the thinking has to be different.

After his speech was over, Chairman Venkaiah Naidu invited him to conduct proceedings. Harivansh adjourned the House till 2 pm.

Securing 125 votes, ruling NDA candidate and JD(U) member Harivansh was elected as the Deputy Chairman. His opponent, BK Hariprasad got 105 votes. The post of the deputy chairman for the Upper House was lying unoccupied since the retirement of P J Kurien on July 1.