Bhubaneswar: In a major move to enforce discipline and boost participation in Parliament, the Lok Sabha has introduced a strict digital attendance system for Members of Parliament (MPs) starting with the 2026 Budget Session.
Under the new system, MPs must mark their attendance through biometric devices installed at their designated seats, replacing the traditional physical register. Attendance will only be counted if the MP is physically present at their assigned seat, preventing the earlier practice of signing the register and leaving the House.
As part of a “no show, no pay” policy, MPs who fail to mark attendance will lose their daily allowance and face salary deductions for the day. Late arrivals, including those entering after the House has adjourned due to disruptions, will also be treated as absent.
The initiative, introduced by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, aims to ensure active participation, improve discipline, and enhance accountability among lawmakers. The move is part of a broader push towards a paperless and tech-driven Parliament, with AI-based translation tools and faster digital documentation being rolled out.
Reports indicate that ministers and the Leader of the Opposition may be exempted from signing the digital attendance register.
The reform marks a significant shift in parliamentary functioning, linking lawmakers’ remuneration directly to their presence and participation in the House.
-OdishaAge
