Freedom of speech not excuse to lower dignity of House: Om Birla

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday expressed concern over the “diminishing dignity” of legislative bodies in India and urged political parties to collectively strengthen democracy by ensuring free, fair, and ‘respectful debates inside Houses.

- Alok KN Mishra

He was speaking on the concluding day of the two-day All India Speakers’ Conference, hosted by the Delhi ‘Assembly to mark the centenary of freedom fighter Vithalbhai Patel's election as the first Speaker of the Central Legislative Assembly.

“The freedom of speech and privilege of members should not be construed as the freedom to lower the dignity of the House,” Birla said. “Over recent times, the dignity of legislative bodies has diminished, which is a matter of concern. Legislators must renew their commitment to ensuring free, fair, and dignified discussions. Democracy becomes stronger when both agreement and disagreement are expressed with respect.”