Under the auspices of Girls India Project, Chandigarh Commission for Protection of Child Rights organized a Mock Parliament that was conducted by St. Joseph’s Sr. Sec. School, Sector 44-D, Chandigarh and Government Model Sr. Sec. School, Dhanas on the virtual platform. The aim of the Mock Parliament was to strengthen the roots of democracy, inculcate a healthy habit of discipline and enable students to understand the working of Parliament. The session began with the rendition of the National Anthem.

Students from both the institutions enacted the Parliamentary proceedings and depicted the functional aspects of the House, commencing with the Introduction of the various members of the Ruling as well as Opposition parties. During the Question Hour many important issues were raised and discussed. Thereafter, a new Bill on ‘Social Security for All’ was introduced followed by the discussion and debate that ensues after the bill is introduced, wherein the students rendered their critical capacity of inquiring, reflecting the Parliament of India. Next came the Voting, and the proceedings then concluded with the Passing of the Bill.

The session was quite successful in its mission to help students to acquire an extensive understanding of how our Parliament functions. CCPCR Chairperson- Ms. Harjinder Kaur was very appreciative of the confidence with which the students performed the role play. Principal Ms. Monica Chawla also applauded the students and was keen for the Mock Parliament to be held as she feels that it aids to develop in them an understanding that respect for rules is essential for conducting any discussion systematically and effectively. It also opens a vista of opportunities for them to consider public issues and not only form their own opinions about them but also to express their views

The session came to a close with a student of the Dhanas school, Vikas, reciting a heart touching self composed poem on how in the next birth he wants to be a woman. This was followed by an emotional song on how girls and boys are equal so there should be no gender discrimination.