In a recent address, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla highlighted the growing concern over the escalating commotion and disputes within legislative assemblies. Speaking on Tuesday, he pointed out that this troubling trend has been a recurring topic of discussion among presiding officers during various meetings.
Birla emphasised the need for maintaining dignity and decorum in the House, urging presiding officers to adhere to Indian values and standards during legislative proceedings.
The occasion was marked by the conclusion of the 10th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Conference, which commenced on September 23 and took place within the Parliament premises. Birla, who also serves as the Chairperson of the CPA India Region, chaired the closing session of this significant event.
During his address, Birla stressed that the traditions and operational systems of the House should embody Indian values. He advocated for the formulation of policies and laws that cultivate a sense of national identity, aligning with the vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat,’ which translates to ‘One India, Great India.’
He called for the House to serve as a centre for dignified discussions concerning government policies and programs, ensuring that all members are encouraged to participate meaningfully.
Birla underscored the essential role that legislatures play in the development of both the nation and individual states. He noted that democratic institutions must actively engage with the public to understand and address their needs and aspirations.
The Speaker further encouraged presiding officers to take proactive steps toward enhancing transparency, accountability, and results-driven approaches within democratic institutions.
Recognizing the challenges faced by new members, Birla proposed comprehensive training programs that focus on the functioning of the House, the importance of maintaining dignity and decorum, and effective use of legislative tools to bring public issues to light.
He stressed that presiding officers should foster ongoing dialogue among various political parties and strive to establish new standards for political conduct.
Expressing his contentment with the advancements in digitization within state legislatures, Birla highlighted the positive impact of information technology on improving the capacity of public representatives.
He conveyed optimism that these initiatives would lead to enhanced efficiency and effectiveness in legislative functions. He urged state legislatures to accelerate their digitization efforts, particularly in regions where progress has been sluggish, to realise the vision of a ‘one nation, one digital platform.’
In addressing concerns raised during the conference, Birla assured participants that topics such as financial autonomy, the declining number of sitting days, and the implementation of the e-Vidhan system would be revisited to explore viable solutions.
He expressed hope that the discussions held during the two-day conference would yield meaningful improvements in the functioning of legislatures across the country.
Birla emphasised the importance of ensuring that the benefits of sustainable and inclusive development reach marginalised communities. The conference saw the participation of 42 presiding officers, including four chairpersons and 25 speakers, along with their principal secretaries and accompanying staff. The event was centred around the theme “The Role of Legislative Bodies in the Attainment of Sustainable and Inclusive Development.”
On the second day of the conference, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, along with the presiding officers of state legislative bodies, paid tribute to distinguished personalities at Prerna Sthal, located within the Parliament premises. This gesture of homage underscored the respect and recognition afforded to those who have made significant contributions to the nation.
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