Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla Calls Legislatures ‘Schools of Democracy’, Urges Lawmakers to Prioritise Public Trust

Jaipur, : Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday described legislative institutions as the true “schools of democracy“, saying they play a crucial role in shaping responsible public representatives through dialogue, discipline, consensus and a commitment to public service. He stressed that the success of a democracy depends not only on constitutional provisions but also on the confidence of citizens and the integrity of their elected representatives.

Speaking at the inaugural session of ‘Legislative Pride Journey: A Gathering of Former and Current Members’, organised to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, Birla highlighted the importance of preserving democratic values while adapting legislative institutions to the changing needs of society.

Reflecting on his own political journey, Birla said the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly laid the foundation of his public life. He noted that the lessons he learned in the House—from respectful debate to parliamentary discipline—guided him through his roles as an MLA, Member of Parliament and eventually Speaker of the Lok Sabha. According to him, constructive discussions strengthen democracy, while personal conflicts weaken the democratic process.

Congratulating the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly on completing 75 years, Birla said the state’s democratic heritage predates the Assembly itself and is deeply rooted in India‘s age-old traditions of consultation, public participation and collective decision-making. He observed that institutions such as village panchayats and representative bodies have long reflected these democratic principles.

The Lok Sabha Speaker also praised the Rajasthan Assembly for its contribution to governance through meaningful legislation, policy discussions and welfare-oriented initiatives. He described the Assembly building as a symbol of constitutional values and acknowledged the vision of former Chief Minister Bhairon Singh Shekhawat in establishing the present legislative complex.

Highlighting India’s global democratic standing, Birla said the country is recognised not only as the world’s largest democracy but also as one of its most vibrant. He added that Parliament and state legislatures complement each other, and the strength of the national legislature is closely linked to the effectiveness and dignity of state assemblies.

Addressing young legislators, Birla encouraged them to remain committed to continuous learning, careful listening and informed participation in legislative business. He advised members to rely on facts, reason and meaningful debate while representing public interests, stating that credibility and conduct leave a lasting impression far beyond political positions.

He also underlined the importance of maintaining the dignity of the Chair and respecting parliamentary traditions. Sharing an experience from the early days of his tenure as Lok Sabha Speaker, Birla recalled receiving advice from a senior parliamentarian about safeguarding the prestige of the Speaker’s office. While robust discussions are essential to democracy, he said, the decorum of legislative proceedings must never be compromised.

Calling for greater use of technology in legislative functioning, Birla advocated the digital preservation of debates and Assembly proceedings. He said accessible digital records would help future lawmakers study past deliberations, strengthen institutional memory and improve legislative research and policymaking.

Concluding his address, Birla urged legislators to uphold the values of dialogue, accountability, dignity and sensitivity during India’s Amrit Kaal, expressing confidence that the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly would continue to serve as a model of democratic governance and inspire legislative institutions across the country.

The event was attended by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani, Deputy Chief Ministers Diya Kumari and Prem Chand Bairwa, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel, Leader of the Opposition Tikaram Jully, Members of Parliament, current and former MLAs, ministers and several other dignitaries.