Recliner chairs installed at Vidhana Soudha, spark debate

A new addition at Karnataka’s Vidhana Soudha has sparked discussion, as Speaker U.T. Khader has introduced 25 recliner chairs and four massage chairs for MLAs to relax during assembly sessions. The move has drawn mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a necessary comfort and others questioning its necessity.

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The recliners have been placed in both the administration and opposition lobbies, ensuring that legislators do not need to step out of the premises for relaxation. According to officials, the initiative aims to provide MLAs with a space to unwind amid long and often intense discussions in the assembly.

However, Speaker Khader’s decision has triggered debate. While some legislators have welcomed the move, arguing that long sessions require such facilities, others believe it sends the wrong message to the public. Critics argue that elected representatives should focus on governance rather than personal comfort.

Adding to the controversy, sources inform Newsfirst Prime that the rent for these chairs is ₹10,000 per day. However, for legislators, no rent has been fixed as the chairs are currently being used on an experimental basis.

The debate continues, with both supporters and critics making their voices heard.