First-time RS member presides over Question Hour

New Delhi : The Rajya Sabha on Thursday witnessed an unusual sight as Kahkashan Perween, a first-time member of the upper House of the Parliament, was invited by Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu to preside over the Question Hour.

Perween, a Janata Dal United (JD-U) MP, is the sole woman member of the Vice-Chairpersons' panel at present. This is for the first time that a first-time member has presided over the Question Hour, an official release said.

Although a little nervous in the beginning, Perween gained her poise after a few minutes in the Chair and smoothly conducted the Question Hour.

Soon after the Zero Hour was over at 12 noon, Chairman Naidu announced that Perween would preside over the proceedings of the House during the Question Hour. Naidu later complimented her for doing her job with confidence.

She was appointed as a Vice-Chairperson by Naidu on March 8 this year, on the occasion of International Women's Day, following the demand made by some women members.