Democracy flourishes through dialogue: Birla at Raj assembly
Jaipur, July 16 -- Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday said that creating a ruckus in the well of the House does not make anyone a great leader, asserting that the conduct of public representatives and adherence to parliamentary decorum remain the true hallmarks of democracy.
Birla was addressing the inaugural session of the Rajasthan legislative assembly's Amrit Mahotsav celebrations, organised in Jaipur to mark the completion of 75 years of the assembly. The event brought together former and sitting MLAs, former speakers, chief ministers and other political leaders.
Referring to the functioning of legislatures, Birla said speeches delivered in Parliament and state assemblies are remembered and read for years, making it essential for legislators to uphold the dignity of the House. "The dignity of the Chair should remain paramount under all circumstances. The Speaker must always exercise restraint and composure," he said.
Emphasising the importance of constructive legislative functioning, Birla described Parliament and state assemblies as institutions that nurture the country's leadership. He said meaningful questions asked by legislators make governments more accountable, while constructive criticism strengthens democracy. "The Assembly is the most effective platform for raising issues concerning the people. Strong legislative institutions are the foundation of transparent, accountable and better governance. Democracy flourishes through study, dialogue and dignified debate," Birla said.
He added that both governments and elected representatives would have to become increasingly accountable over time and described the legislature as the best forum for governments to understand public concerns.
Assembly speaker Vasudev Devnani said the combination of the enthusiasm of young legislators and the experience of senior members strengthens parliamentary traditions.
Tracing the assembly's evolution, Devnani said the Rajasthan legislative assembly began with 160 members, which increased to 190 in 1956 and 200 in 1970. He said legislators played a crucial role in the formation and development of the state after the integration of princely states.
"The Assembly has made significant contributions in strengthening Rajasthan's administrative, economic and social structure. MLAs have played a key role in advancing education, healthcare, agriculture and infrastructure," he said.
Chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma described the assembly's 75-year history as a matter of pride and said elected representatives have a responsibility to fulfil the aspirations of Rajasthan's nearly 80 million people.
He stressed that the ruling party and the opposition should work together on issues of public interest. "There may be political differences, but public interest must remain supreme. Every minute of the Assembly should be utilised for the welfare of the people," Sharma said.
Former minister Rajpal Singh Shekhawat raised concerns over Rajasthan's mounting debt burden, saying the assembly must seriously deliberate on the state's financial situation.
Centenarian ex-MLA Pt. Ram Kishan also attended the event and stressed that the opposition must always be given adequate opportunity to speak in the House. "Criticism has its place in democracy, but the opposition should also provide constructive suggestions to the government".
Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully described the Amrit Mahotsav as a celebration of democracy and public service, saying his own journey reflected the strength of India's democratic institutions.
Former CM Vasundhara Raje's address drew considerable attention as she appealed for preserving dialogue despite political differences. Raje said humanity should always take precedence over politics.
She also expressed concern over the growing bitterness and hostility in contemporary politics, offering a reflective message on maintaining civility despite political differences. "Be fiercely opposed, but leave some room so that whenever we meet again, we don't have to feel embarrassed," she said....
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