Explanation:

Opposition parties in Rajya Sabha recently gave notices under Rule 267 to discuss the Manipur matter. 

About Rule 267

• According to the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha), Rule 267 relates to the suspension of rules.

• It says, “Any member may, with the consent of the Chairman, move that any rule may be suspended in its application to a motion related to the business listed before the Council of that day, and if the motion is carried, the rule in question shall be suspended for the time being; provided further that this rule shall not apply where specific provision already exists for suspension of a rule under a particular chapter of the Rules.”

• Simply put, under Rule 267, Rajya Sabha MPs can submit a written notice to suspend all listed business in the House and discuss an issue of importance that the country is facing.

• A motion under Rule 267 indicates that a matter was serious enough for the House to suspend its normal business to take it up.

• The rule further says, "The Chairman alone has the power to give consent for moving of a motion for suspension of a rule, and it is for the House to decide whether a particular rule should be suspended or not."

• Thus, it is the discretion of the Chairman to decide whether to allow a motion under Rule 267, as it states that “the consent of the Chairman" is required for a member to bring such a motion.

• However, this rule does not apply where specific provisions already exist for the suspension of a rule under a particular chapter of the rules.

Who can issue Rule 267?

• Any member of the Rajya Sabha can issue a notice to the Chairperson for a discussion on any subject under Rule 267.

When was Rule 267 last invoked?

• The last time it was used was in November 2016, when the Upper House invoked Rule 267 to discuss demonetisation. 

Hence both statements are correct.