Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla Urges Lawmakers to Rise Above Party Lines for National Interest

Bhubaneswar, 29 August 2025: Lok Sabha Speaker  Om Birla called on lawmakers to rise above party lines on matters of national importance, expressing concern over the decline in the number of legislative sittings and the disruptive behaviour of members. The remarks were made during the inauguration of the National Conference of Chairpersons of Committees of Parliament and State Legislatures on the Welfare of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

 Birla highlighted the importance of social justice and equality of opportunity as defining features of India’s Constitution, emphasizing that the vision of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar continues to guide the nation’s democratic journey. He noted that this vision has enabled members of marginalized communities to occupy the highest offices, reflecting the inclusiveness of Indian democracy.

Tracing the history of the conference,  Birla said the first meeting of Chairpersons of Committees on Welfare of SCs and STs was held in 1976 in New Delhi. While subsequent conferences were organized in 1979, 1983, 1987, and 2001, this is the first time the event is being held outside the national capital.

The Speaker stressed the critical need for effective utilization of government funds and robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure welfare schemes reach and empower marginalized communities. “True empowerment goes beyond financial aid and must foster self-reliance, dignity, and opportunities for growth,” he said, underlining the Parliament’s commitment to social justice and inclusive governance.

 Birla also emphasized the pivotal role of parliamentary and state legislature committees, describing them as the backbone of democracy. He noted that committees function in a non-partisan manner, free from political compulsions, providing detailed scrutiny of budgetary provisions and welfare schemes. Their consensus-based recommendations hold the government accountable while guiding policy decisions effectively.

He highlighted that constitutional provisions guaranteeing equality before the law and social, economic, and political justice have been the bedrock of India’s progress. Birla added that public sector reforms, financial institutions, and education initiatives, including the National Education Policy, aim to expand opportunities for SCs and STs.

The Speaker expressed confidence that the conference will produce meaningful resolutions, practical suggestions, and innovative ideas to strengthen the role of committees in ensuring social justice, contributing to India’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

The inaugural session was attended by Chief Minister of Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Ministers  Jual Oram and  Dharmendra Pradhan, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha  Harivansh, Chairperson of Parliamentary Committee on Welfare of SCs and STs Dr. Faggan Singh Kulaste, along with members of state and parliamentary committees. The Odisha Legislative Assembly Speaker Smt. Surama Padhy delivered the welcome address, and Deputy Speaker Bhabani Shankar Bhoi delivered the vote of thanks.

The conference theme is “Role of Parliamentary and Legislature Committees in Welfare, Development and Empowerment of SCs and STs.” It will conclude on 30 August 2025 with a valedictory address by Governor of Odisha, Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati.