LUCKNOW, July 13 -- Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly speaker Satish Mahana on Sunday said a strong democracy requires an empowered legislature that remains vigilant and conscious of its constitutional responsibilities. Addressing newly elected and incumbent members of the Bihar Legislative Assembly at a two-day orientation programme at the Bihar Institute of Public Administration and Rural Development (BIPARD) in Gaya, Mahana said the Constitution has vested substantial powers in the legislature, making the Assembly the primary platform for a legislator's role. "Consequently, a legislator's primary identity is forged within the Legislative Assembly itself," Mahana added. Mahana said the four pillars of democracy have clearly defined roles, responsibilities and constitutional limits. He added that conflicts arise when one pillar attempts to encroach upon the jurisdiction of another, and democracy can be strengthened only when each institution functions within its constitutional framework. Highlighting the importance of public confidence, he said the bond of trust between elected representatives and citizens is paramount. Sharing his experience, Mahana said he never assured people that every demand would be fulfilled but always promised sincere and honest efforts to carry out public-interest works. He added that people should have confidence that their representatives will safeguard their interests. The UP assembly speaker described legislative committees as a vital component of the democratic system. He said questioning officials on public issues, seeking information and issuing directions are both the rights and responsibilities of these committees. Stressing the role of technology in governance, he said every action of an elected representative is under public scrutiny, making it essential for MLAs to remain vigilant, well-informed and technologically proficient....