Om Birla Raises Concern Over Decline in Legislative Dignity

• Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla expressed concern over the declining dignity of legislative bodies.
• He emphasized that freedom of speech should not be used to lower the dignity of the House.
• Birla urged all political parties to ensure dignified discussions.
• The remarks were made at a conference celebrating the legacy of Vitthalbhai Patel.

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 25th Aug: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has voiced his concern over what he described as the “gradual decline in the dignity of legislative institutions.”

Addressing the Conference of Presiding Officers of States and Union Territories in Delhi, he asserted that while legislators have the freedom of speech, it should not be “construed as the freedom to lower the dignity of the House.”

Speaking at the Delhi Vidhan Sabha, Birla called on all legislators to renew their commitment to ensuring “free, fair, and dignified discussions.” He noted that the Constitution grants members the privilege to criticize the government, but this freedom must be tempered with proper conduct. He urged political parties to reflect on the importance of maintaining decorum and a respectful exchange of ideas to strengthen democracy.

The conference was held to celebrate the centenary of the election of Shri Vitthalbhai Patel, a freedom fighter and the first Indian President of the Central Legislative Assembly.

Birla praised Patel’s legacy, highlighting his role in establishing an independent secretariat to ensure the free expression of public opinion. He said the traditions established by Patel continue to guide legislative bodies in India.

Birla also stressed the significant responsibility of presiding officers in upholding the dignity of the House. He expressed confidence that they would ensure proceedings remain free, fair, and dignified.

The event was attended by Union Minister Manohar Lal, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Delhi Vidhan Sabha Speaker Vijender Gupta, and various other dignitaries.