Decline in Dignity of Legislatures a Matter of Concern: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday expressed concern over the “gradual decline in the dignity of legislative institutions,” urging lawmakers to renew their commitment to uphold traditions, rules, and civility within the Houses.
New Delhi, August 25: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday expressed concern over the “gradual decline in the dignity of legislative institutions,” urging lawmakers to renew their commitment to uphold traditions, rules, and civility within the Houses.
Delivering the Valedictory Address at the Conference of Presiding Officers of States and Union Territories, held at the Delhi Vidhan Sabha as part of the centenary celebrations of Vitthalbhai Patel’s election as the first Indian President of the Central Legislative Assembly, Birla underlined that freedom of speech and the privilege of members should not be misused to lower the dignity of legislatures.
“Legislators must remember that their language, thoughts, and expressions are the strength of democracy. Freedom of speech cannot be construed as freedom to compromise the dignity of the House,” he said.
Call for Dignified Debate
Birla emphasized that all political parties should come together to ensure free, fair, and dignified discussions, enabling healthy democratic debate through both agreement and disagreement. He added that while members have full constitutional freedom to criticise the government inside legislatures, that privilege must be tempered with proper conduct.
“The House must always remain the voice of the people, and laws must reflect the public interest,” he remarked, noting that presiding officers bear a significant responsibility in maintaining fairness and dignity in proceedings.
Legacy of Vitthalbhai Patel
Reflecting on the historic character of the Delhi Vidhan Sabha, Birla said the chamber had witnessed the voices of freedom fighters who used legislative means in India’s independence movement. He praised Vitthalbhai Patel for establishing independent secretariats under the Speaker, a system that still guides parliamentary functioning today.
“The legacy of Shri Vitthalbhai Patel will not only inspire the nation but also guide it towards a new direction,” Birla added.
The event was attended by Union Ministers Manohar Lal and Jyotiraditya Scindia, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta, presiding officers of state assemblies, MPs, MLAs, and other dignitaries.
