Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], August 30 : Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Saturday emphasised that parliamentary committees must function beyond party lines and focus on the welfare of society, particularly the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes.
Speaking at the concluding session of the National Conference of the Chairpersons of the Parliamentary and State Legislative Committees on the Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes held in Bhubaneswar, Birla said that the committees are designed to represent members from all political parties, ensuring that diverse opinions are respected and included in decision-making.
"Our effort has always been that the parliamentary committees rise above party lines and work extensively in the interest of society and the country. And I believe that by sharing new innovations, new ideas, new experiences, best practices through extensive discussions in such conferences of Parliamentary Committees, we will be able to do extensive work for the welfare of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes of the country," Birla said.
He underlined that the strength of the Indian parliamentary system lies in open dialogue."Every political party's opinion should be respected. The views expressed in committees reach the House, and members from all parties are included in proportion to their strength. Therefore, committees remain the center of serious and detailed discussions," he added.
Birla noted that parliamentary committees for the new session are being formed, with names being sought from all parties. "Whenever committees are constituted, dialogue and broad-based discussion will remain at the core," he said.
Calling on MPs and legislators to uphold the dignity of democratic institutions, Birla stressed the importance of meaningful debate inside Parliament and state legislatures. "Whether on policy issues or other important matters, dialogue enhances the stature and credibility of institutions," he remarked.
Highlighting technology's role in strengthening parliamentary functioning, Birla showcased the "Digital Parliament" platform, where all debates and discussions are available topic-wise and member-wise. He said the initiative aims to make future Parliaments and legislatures even stronger centers of dialogue.
He also informed that the Parliament Library and digital resources are now available online 24x7, enabling members to access information on any subject instantly. "Our effort is to further develop the capacities of all members so that they can engage with citizens more effectively. Providing members with the necessary resources and information on time is the true strength of democracy," Birla concluded.