Parliamentary Leaders Voice Alarm Over Disruptive Conduct in Legislatures
In a significant address marking the foundation day of the Bihar Legislative Assembly, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh raised serious concerns about the growing trend of disruptions and disorderly conduct in legislative proceedings across India. Both leaders emphasized that such behavior severely undermines the dignity and effectiveness of democratic institutions, calling for a return to meaningful debate and constructive criticism.
Birla Warns of Damage to Democratic Image
Speaking at the event in Patna, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla highlighted the legislature's crucial role as a vital pillar of democracy. He expressed profound concern over frequent instances where legislative proceedings are disrupted, stating unequivocally that these actions "adversely affect the image of democratic institutions" in the public eye. Birla stressed that parliamentary discipline, substantive legislative interventions, and constructive criticism are essential components that strengthen democratic foundations.
"The strength of democracy is directly linked to the capacity, competence and integrity of its elected representatives," Birla asserted. "Democratic institutions derive their effectiveness not merely from constitutional provisions, but also from the manner in which public representatives discharge their responsibilities."
Digital Innovation and Representation Priorities
On the occasion, Birla inaugurated the Neva (National e-Vidhan Application) Digital House of the Bihar Legislature, a technological initiative designed to enhance transparency. This platform will enable citizens to watch live proceedings of Bihar's bicameral House, bringing legislative activities closer to the people.
The Lok Sabha Speaker also emphasized the need for legislatures to prioritize issues affecting underrepresented segments of society. "We must pay special attention to issues affecting rural and remote areas, which often remain underrepresented," he said. "Robust responses to the aspirations of women and youth must be reflected in public policies and legislative initiatives. Women and youth are key stakeholders in the nation's development."
Harivansh Invokes Nehru's Parliamentary Wisdom
Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh echoed Birla's concerns while regretting recent developments during the current Parliament session. He turned to historical precedent, quoting India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to underscore the importance of parliamentary decorum.
Harivansh referenced Nehru's 1956 speech, where the founding leader articulated how parliamentary conduct sets a national example: "Parliament does set some kind of an example to the rest of the country. As we behave here with each other, towards our work, towards the general public, to some extent, others will behave elsewhere, whether in the State Legislatures or in the many other organs of self-government that exist in the country or that are growing up, right way down to that foundation of our democracy, the Panchayats in villages."
The Deputy Chairman continued quoting Nehru's enduring message: "Therefore, on all of us rests this great responsibility, not only to behave as we should behave, but to remember always that a million eyes are upon us and we may not do something that brings the slightest discredit on Parliament or set a wrong line before the people."
The Broader Implications for Democratic Governance
The joint expressions of concern from two of Parliament's senior presiding officers highlight a growing recognition that legislative disruptions have consequences far beyond the immediate chamber. Key points emphasized include:
- Disruptive conduct damages public trust in democratic institutions
- Meaningful debate and constructive criticism are essential for effective governance
- Parliamentary behavior influences conduct at all levels of government
- Technological transparency through initiatives like Neva can enhance public engagement
- Legislative priorities must address underrepresented communities and regions
The foundation day event served as both a celebration of Bihar's legislative history and a sober reflection on contemporary challenges facing India's democratic institutions. As parliamentary leaders invoke both constitutional principles and historical wisdom, their message underscores the urgent need for renewed commitment to orderly, substantive legislative proceedings that honor India's democratic traditions while addressing the nation's evolving needs.
