NEW DELHI: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday expressed concern over the gradual decline in the dignity of legislative institutions, stressing that freedom of speech should not be misused to undermine the sanctity of the House.
Delivering the valedictory address at the Conference of Presiding Officers of States and Union Territories, held to mark the centenary year of Vitthalbhai Patel’s election as the first Indian President of the Central Legislative Assembly, Birla said: “The gradual decline in the dignity of legislative institutions is a matter of concern for all legislators. Freedom of speech and the privileges of Members should not be construed as the freedom to lower the dignity of the House.”
He further observed: “Legislators must remember that their language, thoughts, and expressions are the strength of democracy.”
Urging lawmakers to renew their commitment to free, fair, and dignified discussions, the Speaker emphasized that all political parties must come together to encourage the forthright expression of ideas, thereby strengthening democracy through both agreement and disagreement.
Birla also noted that the legacy of Vitthalbhai Patel continues to inspire and guide the nation. He highlighted that Patel was instrumental in establishing an independent secretariat and offices under the Speaker—an institutional framework that remains a source of guidance even today.