Addressing the All India Speakers’ Conference organized by the Delhi Assembly, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla reflected on the conclusion of the monsoon session. He emphasized the importance of upholding the dignity of the House, cautioning against the misuse of freedom of speech.
Birla expressed worries about the decreasing standards in maintaining the decorum of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. He urged all stakeholders to address the issue, emphasizing the need for impartiality from the Speaker during proceedings.
Birla reminded that the Constitution grants freedom of speech within the House, including the right to criticize the government. However, he expressed concern over a decline in the intent behind this freedom. He emphasized the importance of debates, discussions, and public interest issues in the House proceedings.
Birla urged members to prioritize the concerns of their constituents. He stressed the importance of appropriate conduct alongside freedom of expression in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, highlighting the need for representatives to address public issues and make the House a platform for the people.
He appealed to maintain respectful language and decorum. He asserted that dissent strengthens democracy, but adherence to the code of conduct is essential. The public is watching, he said, urging all parties to maintain the dignity of the House while supporting freedom of expression.
Birla clarified that freedom of expression should not be interpreted as a means to diminish the House’s dignity.
The conference also commemorated the centenary of Vithalbhai Patel’s election as the first elected Indian President of the Central Legislative Assembly. Birla highlighted Patel’s inspiring legacy and the lasting impact of his traditions, which became part of the nation’s constitutional framework.