CM Yogi Adityanath Stresses Legislature as Foundational Pillar of Indian Democracy
In a significant address at the Vidhan Bhawan in Lucknow, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath articulated the core principles that underpin India's democratic framework. Speaking at the concluding session of the 86th All India Presiding Officers' Conference and the 62nd Conference of Secretaries of Legislative Bodies, the CM underscored that justice, equality, and fraternity constitute the very soul of Indian democracy.
Legislature as the Bedrock of Governance and Development
Adityanath firmly asserted that the legislature serves as the foundational institution and a vital platform for both law-making and development planning. He elaborated, "Laws to ensure justice are framed on the floor of the legislature, government policies for social equality are discussed there, and fraternity is reflected through dialogue even amid agreement and disagreement." This statement highlights the multifaceted role of legislative bodies in shaping a just and equitable society.
Reflecting on India's democratic strength, the Chief Minister noted that the nation is fortunate to possess robust democratic institutions that inspire the world. He emphasized the inclusivity of the system, stating, "In our democracy, even the person standing at the last rung of society can have his voice placed before the highest House of the country through his elected representative, and that voice is heard with strength." Adityanath described elected representatives as the central pillar of this democratic edifice.
Parliamentary Practices as a Model for State Legislatures
Drawing from his experience as a Lok Sabha MP, Yogi Adityanath shared insights on how parliamentary procedures can enhance legislative efficiency at the state level. He recalled, "While staying in Parliament, I learned how government activities, mutual behaviour, and programmes under rules can be advanced in ordinary life. If the Assembly-Council just observes and trains on the rules and regulations of Parliament, it will have a lot of ease in conducting its House."
A practical example of this inspiration was highlighted when discussing reforms in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly. The CM mentioned, "When Satish Mahana took over the responsibility of Speaker of UP Assembly in 2022, I had told him that 20 starred questions are listed in Question Hour, but in 1 and a quarter hour Question Hour, only 2 or 3 members get to speak. Can we also take it forward on the lines of Parliament? On this, he immediately made changes in the rules."
These changes have led to significant improvements: "Now, in 1 and a quarter hours, 20 starred questions and 2-3 supplementary questions are taken with each question. Questioners and answering ministers both come fully prepared. Greater participation of people's representatives is seen in the House. Parliament became an inspiration for us."
Commitment to Development and Technological Advancement
The Chief Minister welcomed the six important resolutions passed during the conference and linked them to broader national goals. He referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for a 25-year action plan during the Amrit Mahotsav of Independence, stating, "We are moving forward with the resolve to realise the vision of 'Vision 2047-Viksit Bharat'."
Adityanath highlighted the UP Assembly's proactive engagement, noting that over 300 members from both ruling and opposition sides participated in a 24-hour discussion on 'Viksit Bharat-Viksit Uttar Pradesh, Aatmanirbhar Bharat - Aatmanirbhar Uttar Pradesh'. He lauded the assembly's smooth and disciplined functioning, particularly appreciating the adoption of a resolution mandating a minimum of 30 sittings annually. "This initiative serves as an inspiration not only for Parliament and state legislatures, but also for municipal bodies, village panchayats, district panchayats, and block-level institutions," he added.
Emphasizing the role of elected representatives as the backbone of development, Adityanath stressed the importance of keeping pace with technology. He recalled the swift implementation of e-governance, saying, "When the concept of e-governance was introduced, the government decided to implement it without delay. Today, the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Legislative Council, Cabinet meetings, and the budget process are all made completely paperless." This move underscores a commitment to efficient and transparent governance.
Proactive Leadership and Collaborative Learning
The Chief Minister observed that the approach of both the Speaker and the government is proactive rather than reactive. He praised the Speaker of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly and the Chairman of the Legislative Council for their active participation in conferences across the country, which extends beyond legislative proceedings. Adityanath described such conferences as valuable platforms for collective learning and knowledge-sharing, fostering a culture of continuous improvement in democratic practices.
In summary, Yogi Adityanath's address reinforced the critical role of legislatures in upholding democratic values, driving development, and embracing innovation. His insights from parliamentary experiences and reforms in Uttar Pradesh offer a blueprint for enhancing legislative efficiency and inclusivity across India's democratic institutions.
