In democracy, environment of dialogue, cooperation is necessary: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

New Delhi [India], August 10 : Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Saturday urged the newly elected members of Parliament to uphold the highest standards of democracy, adding that for a healthy and strong democracy, we need to foster an environment of dialogue and cooperation.
Addressing a keynote address at the valedictory function of the two-day orientation programme organised for newly elected members of Parliament, Birla said, "Actions of the members are observed not just within India but globally and, therefore, they should conduct themselves with dignity, decency and decorum."
Referring to the role of the members as elected representatives, Birla observed that being elected as a Member of Parliament carries significant responsibilities, both in solving public issues and in providing thoughtful suggestions to the government on matters of governance.
"It is the responsibility of the members to fulfill the hopes and aspirations of the people they represent and, therefore, they should use the forum of the House to discuss the issues of the people," Birla added.
Mentioning the importance of learning to become an effective parliamentarian, Birla was emphatic that the more members study the rules and procedures of the House, the more effectively they will be able to use the House.
"Members should actively participate in House proceedings with complete information of rules and issues," he added.
Emphasising that the success of members of Parliament hinges on their ability to effectively articulate the concerns of their constituents clearly and concisely within the House, Birla noted that the established traditions and practices within the House are intended to foster meaningful and productive discussions and the new members should further strengthen that spirit.
Birla also emphasised the importance of setting high standards of democracy within the House, particularly at a time when the expectations and scrutiny of the public are higher than ever.
Stating the objectives of the orientation, Birla emphasised that the primary goal of the orientation programme was to provide members with the essential knowledge and tools to effectively address the issues of their constituents, all within the framework of parliamentary rules.
The Lok Sabha Speaker thanked the newly elected members for their active participation in the orientation programme and emphasised that the duty of strengthening India's democratic heritage rests on everyone. He called for dedicated efforts to fulfil this important responsibility.