Noise without NEWS

We are talking about The Great Indian Debate. Every evening from 8 o’clock till the witching hour, our television news channels conduct an event they describe as debate.

- SURESH SUBRAHMANYAN

We only have their word for it. I was brought up to believe that a debate is a civilised exchange of opposing views on a given proposition, with one set of speakers speaking in favour of the motion, and the other opposing it with each speaker allotted a time limit. The Chairperson or Speaker of the House provides a discretionary extra minute for the speaker to wrap up. Failing which the bell will toll, and it tolls for thee.

Jokes and jibes at each other’s expense are commonplace during these debates, but all kept within the bounds of civility and good taste. A ready wit helps the proceedings to move along. At the end, the Speaker puts the motion to vote and the audience, representing the members of the House, indicate their approval or dissent by a show of hands, signaling if the motion was carried or rejected. All very parliamentary. Once the debate is over, the speakers retire to the green room to enjoy a convivial cup of tea and cookies.