Agartala, September 27, 2024: In a significant event aimed at reinforcing democratic values, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated the 21st Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone-III at the Mizoram Legislative Assembly on Friday. The conference brought together a distinguished panel of political leaders and lawmakers including Mizoram’s Chief Minister Lalduhoma, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly and Chairman of CPA India Region Zone-III, Sharingain Longkumer along with Mizoram Legislative Assembly Speaker Lalbiakzama and Deputy Speaker Lalfamkima.
The conference was attended by members of the Mizoram Legislative Assembly and other key dignitaries focused on the theme of “Democratic Sanctity, Transparency, Accountability, and Results from Democracy.” In his inaugural address, Speaker Om Birla emphasized the critical role of transparency and accountability in maintaining the sanctity of democratic institutions.
“Sanctity and transparency of legislatures play an integral role in strengthening democracy. It is only through trust in democratic institutions that we can ensure that democracy continues to serve the people effectively,” Birla remarked. He further underscored that it is the responsibility of Presiding Officers to uphold the probity of legislative bodies and ensure their efficient functioning.
In his speech, Birla highlighted the importance of constructive dialogue within legislative houses, noting that meaningful debates on issues of public interest are vital for reinforcing democracy. “Democracy is reinforced when legislatures, despite disagreements, come together to collectively discuss and debate on matters of public importance,” he added.
The Lok Sabha Speaker also called for lawmakers to use legislatures as platforms to address the problems of the people. He stated that elected representatives must remain committed to their constituents, which in turn would elevate the quality of lawmaking and enhance the dignity of legislative institutions.
“Legislatures are platforms for constructive discussions on the issues that matter to the common people. If members work with the commitment to serve their constituents, the quality of lawmaking will also be enhanced, and the dignity of legislative institutions will increase,” Birla said.
He also stressed that legislative bodies must prioritize accountability and transparency in governance, as these principles are key to driving socio-economic changes. “Legislatures must always strive to ensure the accountability and transparency of governance, as these values are essential for bringing transformative changes in the lives of citizens,” Birla noted.
In his address, the Speaker also lauded the Northeast region for its rich cultural heritage and commended the legislative bodies in the region for their transformative role in governance. Birla pointed to the integration of technology in addressing local issues and highlighted the Northeast’s recent strides in development, crediting efforts to improve physical, digital, and social connectivity.
“The legislative bodies of the Northeast have played a transformative role, using technology to address local issues. The region has also passed several enabling laws and taken result-oriented decisions, which have contributed to its rapid development,” Birla remarked.
He further emphasized the Northeast’s growing prominence in India’s development strategy, noting that the region’s enhanced connectivity has shifted it from the periphery to the forefront of the country’s growth trajectory. “The work done in recent years to enhance connectivity has transformed the Northeast from a marginal region to one that plays a central role in India’s progress. Northeast India will be crucial in fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for India’s development,” Birla stated.
During the event, Om Birla also inaugurated the newly established Archives Section of the Mizoram Legislative Assembly Library, which aims to preserve important legislative documents and enhance access to historical records.
In addition to the conference, Birla engaged with members of the media, where he discussed the ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic institutions across the country.
The CPA India Region Zone-III, which comprises Northeastern states, has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and dialogue among state legislatures, focusing on addressing regional challenges through a democratic lens. The 21st conference in Mizoram continues this legacy, providing a platform for lawmakers to share insights on governance and explore new strategies to enhance democratic processes.
