Parliament Session Begins Next Monday, Covid Test Not Mandatory: Om Birla

Speaker Om Birla said 313 MPs have been fully vaccinated, while 23 have not been able to take their first jab due to some medical reasons.

All Covid-related protocol will be followed during the monsoon session of Parliament set to begin next Monday, said Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, adding that those who have not been vaccinated against coronavirus will be requested to take an RT-PCR test before entering the House premises. The Speaker, addressing a press conference in the Parliament complex, said 313 MPs have been fully vaccinated, while 23 have not been able to take their first jab due to some medical reasons. "All members and media will be allowed in accordance with Covid rules. RTPCR test is not mandatory. We will request those who have not undergone vaccination to undergo test," said the Speaker. The RTPCR test facility will be available 24 hours and arrangements are in place to ensure that staff members of MPs are also vaccinated, said Mr Birla.