Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla on Saturday expressed anguish over the decline of dignity and decorum in legislatures. The statement assumes significance in the backdrop of continuous disruptions of the proceedings by the opposition members in the Lok Sabha seen since the commencement of budget session.
Emphasising the need to preserve the sanctity of legislative institutions, Birla stated that maintaining the dignity and decorum of the House is a fundamental responsibility of every public representative. The Legislature, he said, is a vital institution of democracy, and its dignity must be respected and preserved at all times. He expressed concern over instances of disruptions and disorderly conduct in legislative proceedings and observed that such practices adversely affect the image of democratic institutions.
He urged members to place greater emphasis on dialogue, reasoned debate and constructive engagement. He further added that criticism should be policy-oriented, fact-based and aimed at public welfare. Parliamentary discipline and meaningful legislative oversight through constructive criticism strengthen democracy, the Speaker mentioned.
Om Birla made these remarks while delivering the inaugural address on the programme on "Empowered Legislators, Stronger Democracy" on the occasion of the foundation day of Bihar Legislative Assembly in Patna, today.Observing that empowered legislators form the very foundation of a strong democracy, Birla stated that the strength of democracy is directly linked to the capacity, competence and integrity of its elected representatives. He observed that democratic institutions derive their effectiveness not merely from constitutional provisions, but from the manner in which public representatives discharge their responsibilities.
A legislator derives strength from the trust and confidence of the people, he noted. By raising public issues, articulating citizens' concerns and working towards their resolution through legislative processes, legislators contribute significantly to strengthening democracy, he added. Birla opined that empowerment of legislators lies in their ability to understand public needs, engage meaningfully in legislative procedures and contribute constructively to policy formulation.
Such empowerment, he added, is rooted in ethical conduct, responsibility and accountability. These values alone enable legislators to consistently act in the larger public interest. When legislators are empowered, informed and responsive, democratic institutions gain renewed credibility and public confidence, stressed Birla.Observing that constitutional awareness and procedural knowledge enhance the credibility of legislators, Birla emphasised that a legislator who is well-versed in parliamentary procedures is better equipped to make meaningful interventions and ensure transparency and accountability in governance.
Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and of Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju; Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, Harivansh; Chairman, Bihar Legislative Council, Awadhesh Narain Singh; Deputy Chief Minister, Bihar, Vijay Kumar Sinha; and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Government of Bihar, Vijay Kumar Chaudhary also addressed the distinguished gathering on this occasion.
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