PM Modi Inaugurates 28th CSPOC; Lok Sabha Speaker Flags Ethical AI, Social Media Risks

New Delhi, January 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) at the historic Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan, bringing together parliamentary leaders from across the Commonwealth to deliberate on the future of democratic institutions.

The inaugural session was attended by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Union Ministers, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Presiding Officers from Commonwealth parliaments, Members of Parliament, and several other dignitaries.

Welcoming delegates, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla highlighted the transformative impact of rapid technological advancement on governance and democratic functioning. He noted that tools such as Artificial Intelligence and social media have improved the efficiency, transparency, and outreach of legislative institutions, but also cautioned against their misuse, which has led to challenges such as misinformation, cyber threats, and growing social divisions.

The Speaker stressed that legislatures across the world share a collective responsibility to address these emerging concerns. He underlined the need for ethical deployment of AI and the creation of transparent, accountable, and credible social media frameworks to protect democratic values and public trust.

Sharing India’s experience, Om Birla said that Parliament and State Legislatures are increasingly adopting digital technologies, moving towards paperless functioning and integrated digital platforms. He said these initiatives are setting new standards in accessibility, efficiency, and transparency within legislative processes.

Referring to legislative reforms in India, the Speaker said that the repeal of outdated laws and the enactment of welfare-oriented legislation, aligned with public aspirations, have significantly contributed to the country’s journey towards becoming a developed and self-reliant nation.

Reflecting on India’s democratic evolution, Om Birla said that over more than seven decades, the country has consistently strengthened its parliamentary institutions through inclusive policies, people-centric governance, and a strong and impartial electoral system. These efforts, he noted, have deepened citizens’ faith in democracy.

Emphasising the importance of international parliamentary platforms, the Speaker said forums like CSPOC enable the exchange of ideas, experiences, and best practices among democracies. He added that collective wisdom and shared responsibility are essential to address the complex challenges facing legislatures globally.

The Lok Sabha Speaker also remarked that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India has emerged as the fastest-growing major economy and is increasingly being looked upon for solutions to global challenges. He said India today offers direction, stability, and inspiration to the world.

Highlighting the objectives of the Conference, Om Birla said discussions would focus on the impartiality and fairness of Presiding Officers, strengthening public trust in Parliaments, and preserving the dignity and credibility of parliamentary institutions — a priority for all democracies.

The 28th CSPOC has brought together Presiding Officers from 53 national parliaments of the Commonwealth, along with representatives from semi-autonomous legislatures and leading parliamentary organisations. Over the course of the Conference, delegates will deliberate on issues including the role of AI in parliamentary functioning, the impact of social media on legislators, enhancing citizen engagement beyond voting, and the health and wellbeing of Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff.

The Conference will conclude with the valedictory address by the Lok Sabha Speaker on Friday.