During the closing address of the All India Speakers’ Conference hosted by the Delhi Assembly, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla discussed the recently concluded monsoon session of Parliament. He stressed the need to balance freedom of expression with the preservation of the House’s dignity.
Birla highlighted his concern over the waning standards of decorum in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, asking all members and political entities to consider this issue. He also emphasized that the Speaker’s role during proceedings must be perceived as unbiased, independent, and fair.
Birla noted the constitutional right to speak freely within the House, including criticizing the government, while expressing concern over the evolving intent behind this freedom. He underscored the importance of debates, discussions, and addressing public issues in the House.
He encouraged MPs to prioritize the needs of their electorate, rising above political divisions. He emphasized the importance of both freedom of expression and proper conduct in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. He also underscored the need for MPs to address public issues and make the House the voice of the people.
Birla called for maintaining respectful language and decorum within and outside the House, stating that dissent is a cornerstone of democracy, but the code of conduct must be adhered to. The public observes the conduct of its representatives, he said, and urged all parties to safeguard the dignity of the House while protecting the freedom of expression.
He clarified that freedom of expression should not come at the cost of the House’s dignity.
The conference also marked the centenary of Vithalbhai Patel’s election as the first elected Indian President of the Central Legislative Assembly. Birla reflected on Patel’s life, role in the freedom struggle, and work as Speaker, which continue to inspire. He also emphasized that Patel’s established traditions have become part of India’s constitution.