Lok Sabha Speaker Calls on Lawmakers to Prioritize National Interest Over Party Lines
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla called on lawmakers to prioritize national interests over party affiliations during a recent conference in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. He expressed concern over the decreasing number of legislative sittings and the disruptive behavior of members within legislative bodies. In his address at the National Conference of Chairpersons of Committees of Parliament and State Legislatures on the Welfare of Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), Birla emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue and discussions in legislative processes.
Emphasizing the Vision of the Constitution
During his speech, Shri Birla reaffirmed the enduring vision of the Indian Constitution, highlighting social justice and equal opportunity as its core principles. He reflected on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s aspiration for an India where marginalized communities, including SCs and STs, can live with dignity and respect. Birla noted that over the years, this vision has materialized, allowing individuals from these communities to ascend to significant positions within the government, showcasing the inclusiveness of Indian democracy. He stated that the ability of individuals from humble backgrounds to reach the highest offices, such as the presidency and prime ministership, is a testament to the strength of India’s democratic framework.
Historical Context of the Conference
The current conference marks a significant milestone as it is the first time the gathering of Chairpersons of Committees on the Welfare of SCs and STs is being held outside of Delhi. The inaugural conference took place in 1976, with subsequent meetings held in 1979, 1983, 1987, and 2001. These conferences have fostered essential discussions on welfare and constitutional protections for SCs and STs. Birla emphasized the need for effective utilization of government funds and robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure that welfare schemes genuinely empower marginalized communities. He underscored the importance of financial discipline and administrative accountability in driving inclusive development.
The Role of Parliamentary Committees
Shri Birla highlighted the vital role that parliamentary committees play in strengthening democracy. He explained that these committees operate free from partisan politics, allowing for detailed examination of issues and consensus-based recommendations. Particularly for committees focused on the welfare of SCs and STs, their work involves scrutinizing budgetary allocations and assessing the effectiveness of various schemes. The reports generated by these committees not only hold the government accountable but also provide valuable insights for necessary adjustments in policy implementation. Birla noted that the non-partisan nature of these committees enables them to focus solely on the interests of the people, ensuring that discussions are more structured and detailed than those typically held in the legislative assembly.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Inclusive Development
In his concluding remarks, Shri Birla expressed optimism that the conference would yield meaningful resolutions and innovative ideas to enhance the role of committees in promoting social justice. He emphasized the need for a roadmap that aligns with India’s aspirations for a developed nation by 2047, rooted in the values of justice, equality, and dignity for all. The conference, themed “Role of Parliamentary and Legislature Committees in Welfare, Development and Empowerment of SCs and STs,” is set to conclude on August 30, 2025, with a valedictory address by the Governor of Odisha, Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati. The event also featured notable attendees, including Odisha’s Chief Minister and various Union Ministers, who contributed to the discussions on enhancing welfare for marginalized communities.
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