At the All India Speakers’ Conference organized by the Delhi Assembly, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla discussed the recently concluded monsoon session. He conveyed his message that freedom of expression, a cornerstone of democracy, must be balanced with the preservation of the dignity of the House.
Birla expressed concern over the decline in maintaining the decorum of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. He urged all stakeholders, including parliamentarians and political parties, to address this. He also stated that the Speaker of the House should be seen as impartial and just during proceedings.
Birla recalled that the Constitution grants the right to speak freely within the House, including criticizing the government. However, he noted that the intent behind this freedom has deteriorated. He stressed the need for constructive debates, discussions, and consideration of public interest issues.
He advised MPs to focus on the expectations of their constituents. He highlighted that appropriate conduct is as essential as freedom of expression in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and that members should represent the public’s concerns.
Birla urged all present to uphold respectful language and decorum, inside and outside the House. He emphasized that while dissent is integral to democracy, members must adhere to the code of conduct. He reminded that the public is observing their actions, and called for all political parties to preserve the dignity of the House while supporting freedom of expression.
He clarified that freedom of expression should not be used to undermine the dignity of the House.
The conference celebrated the centenary of Vithalbhai Patel’s election as the first Indian President of the Central Legislative Assembly. Birla highlighted Patel’s exemplary life and work, which continue to inspire, and emphasized the significance of his traditions, which have become part of India’s constitutional framework.