Declining legislative standards harm democracy: Lok Sabha Speaker

Patna: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Saturday expressed concern over frequent disruptions and disorderly conduct in legislative proceedings, warning that declining standards in legislative bodies adversely affect the image of democratic institutions.Addressing legislators on the theme ‘Empowered legislators, stronger democracy’ after inaugurating the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) at the Bihar legislative assembly on its foundation day in Patna, Birla said transparency in govt functioning and accountability in administration were essential. He stressed the need to preserve the sanctity of legislative institutions, saying that the country’s leadership emerges from legislative assemblies.“Maintaining the dignity and decorum of the House is the responsibility of every elected representative as people send them to the assembly with great expectations and, therefore, their concerns should be addressed with utmost seriousness,” he said.Emphasising dialogue, reasoned debate and constructive engagement, Birla said criticism should be policy-oriented, fact-based and aimed at public welfare. He said empowered legislators form the foundation of a strong democracy and added that democratic institutions derive their strength not merely from constitutional provisions, but from how public representatives discharge their responsibilities.

He also underlined the importance of constitutional awareness and procedural knowledge, saying these enhance the credibility of legislators. Robust responses to the aspirations of women and youth, he said, must be reflected in public policies and legislative initiatives.Referring to the implementation of NeVA in the Bihar legislative assembly, Birla described it as a significant step towards transparency and efficiency.

Digitalisation, he said, facilitates access to records, enhances research capabilities and reduces dependence on paper. He encouraged legislators to effectively use digital tools to realise PM Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘One Nation, One Legislative Platform’.Birla said leaders from Bihar have played a significant role in shaping the nation’s political discourse and democratic institutions.Rajya Sabha deputy chairman Harivansh stressed that Parliament and state assemblies must function in accordance with parliamentary norms and not the whims of individual members.

Preserving democratic values, he said, should remain a top priority. He added that Bihar, under CM Nitish Kumar, was embracing modern technology while upholding its rich legacy.Union parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju advised legislators to thoroughly understand the rules of the House. “One should have a proper understanding of the rules before speaking in the House,” he said, referring to the ongoing controversy involving Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and other opposition members.Highlighting differences between Indian and British parliamentarians, Rijiju said an MP in India represents around 2.5 million people, compared to about 90,000 in England. “In India, MPs and MLAs are approached for all kinds of public problems — from arranging bail and hospital admissions to school admissions and even drainage and electricity. In England, MPs mainly focus on policy discussions,” he said.Bihar legislative council chairman Awadhesh Narain Singh, deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha and parliamentary affairs minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary also addressed the gathering. Bihar legislative assembly Speaker Prem Kumar delivered the welcome address while deputy speaker Narendra Narayan Yadav proposed the vote of thanks.