Special Correspondent
Lawmakers should keep in mind the dignity of the House even while registering their protests, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said on Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters after the conclusion of the eighth Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) conference, hosted by the Assam Legislative Assembly, Mr. Birla also said planned disruption of legislature lowers it's dignity and is inappropriate in parliamentary democracy.
"The decorum of the House should be maintained even while expressing dissent and disagreements,"Mr. Birla said, adding that it is the duty of all lawmakers across the party lines to ensure that the dignity of their respective legislatures is maintained all the time.
Asked about proposed changes to the anti–defection law by a panel of experts, headed by Rajasthan Assembly Speaker C.P. Joshi, Mr. Birla said the issue is still debated within the panel as there is no consensus.
The India region conference adopted a resolution on harnessing youth power to further the cause of democratic institutions.
Mr. Birla said the energy of the youth should be utilised to address challenges like unemployment and education and noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has realised their potential in providing solutions through innovation.
"Our policies and programmes should be youth–centric to reap the demographic dividend." He said the youth should also be mindful of their duties and responsibilities towards the nation.
On the outcome of the meet, the Speaker said the deliberations will prove to be very fruitful not just for India but for the entire CPA fraternity as such meetings deepen democratic traditions and parliamentary systems by sharing best practices amongst various legislatures.
He also complimented Assam Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for organising an excellent conference.
In his valedictory address, Assam Governor Jagdish Mukhi said the Assemblies strengthen the democratic and federal edifice of the nation and presiding officers have a very important role in their smooth functioning.
