“Power is Public Trust, Not Privilege” said Speaker Vijender Gupta to Students of Indian Institute of Democratic Leadership

New Delhi, 2 March 2026 : “Power is not a privilege, but a sacred public trust that must be wielded for the progress of the last citizen,” remarked Vijender Gupta, Hon’ble Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly, today while addressing the aspiring young students of the Indian Institute of Democratic Leadership (IIDL). Welcoming the Cohort IX students to the hallowed halls of the Vidhan Sabha, the Speaker emphasized that the strength of a democracy lies not just in its laws, but in the ethical grounding of those who choose to serve the nation. He urged the students to view their roles as future architects of India’s destiny with a sense of deep responsibility and humility.

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The visit, organized as part of IIDL’s structured field study to the national capital, provided students with a rare, first-hand exposure to the nuances of legislative functioning and governance. The Speaker lauded the initiative by Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini, noting that institutions dedicated to training youth in democratic leadership are essential for the health of the Republic. He pointed out that while academic theory provides a foundation, the true essence of democracy must be experienced within its institutions to understand the complexities of public policy and administration.

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During his keynote address, Vijender Gupta underscored the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat,’ stating that India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation is not merely an economic goal but a commitment to inclusive and transparent governance. He highlighted that a developed India requires leaders who possess the courage to make informed decisions in the national interest and the integrity to uphold constitutional values. He stressed that the pillars of a prosperous nation are built on the collective efforts of responsible legislators, efficient administrators, and an engaged citizenry.

​Reflecting on his role as the Speaker, Gupta shared insights into the daily workings of the Assembly, where debate, deliberation, and rigorous scrutiny serve as the bedrock of democracy. He explained that the legislative process is a vital tool for ensuring that every government decision mirrors the aspirations of the people. He encouraged the students to observe how discipline and mutual respect within the House are fundamental to strengthening the democratic fabric of the country.

​Addressing the diverse group of aspiring politicians, civil servants, and policy thinkers, the Speaker issued a stirring call to action for the younger generation. He remarked that the India of tomorrow depends on leaders who place the nation above self and duty above convenience. He emphasized that as technology and the economy advance, they must be guided by human sensitivity and a steadfast commitment to ethical leadership, ensuring that progress does not leave anyone behind.

Vijender Gupta highlighted the Delhi Legislative Assembly’s evolution into a model of modern governance, noting its transition to a fully paperless, solar-powered “green legislature” through the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA). To preserve the “spirit of democracy,” he announced the Assembly’s upcoming transformation into a Heritage Site open to the public. Shri Gupta also discussed his visionary proposal for a National Legislative Index (NLI) to evaluate legislator performance, an initiative gaining national momentum.

​The session concluded with an interactive dialogue, leaving the students inspired by the Speaker’s vision of a value-based political landscape. The leadership of RMP and IIDL expressed their gratitude to the Speaker for his invaluable guidance. By opening the doors of the Delhi Legislative Assembly to these future leaders, the interaction successfully bridged the gap between academic learning and the practical realities of nation-building, reinforcing the students’ commitment to serving the Indian democracy.