Lok Sabha Speaker Urges Political Parties to Uphold Dignity of Legislatures, Inaugurates CPA Conference in Nagaland

Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla on Monday urged all political parties to uphold the dignity of legislative institutions by ensuring their smooth and orderly functioning. He cautioned that planned disruptions weaken democracy, depriving citizens of meaningful deliberations and accountability.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the 22nd Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region, Zone–III Conference held at the Nagaland Legislative Assembly in Kohima, Shri Birla said that democracy provides ample avenues to raise issues and express opinions through peaceful and informed discussions. With the Winter Session of Parliament set to begin on December 1, he appealed to all political parties to ensure the smooth conduct of House proceedings.

While inaugurating the two-day CPA Conference, themed “Policy, Progress, and Citizens: Legislature as Catalysts of Change,” Shri Birla emphasized that legislatures must play a pivotal role in transforming public opinion into policy. He said that the responsibility of legislatures goes beyond law-making—it is to translate citizens’ aspirations into actionable policies.

Highlighting the growing role of technology in governance, the Speaker praised the remarkable digital transformation across Northeastern legislatures, especially the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for becoming a fully paperless legislature. He said digital innovations strengthen transparency and accessibility but urged lawmakers to use Artificial Intelligence responsibly and ethically to uphold the integrity of legislative processes.

The Speaker also underscored the importance of Centre–State cooperation in effective governance, noting that stronger collaboration between the two levels of government leads to more inclusive and region-specific policies.

Calling for a comprehensive development strategy for the Northeast, Shri Birla said that plans must integrate climate resilience, green infrastructure, and active community participation. He stressed that sustainable growth requires addressing climate challenges and natural disasters that impact livelihoods and infrastructure in the region.

Applauding the progress made by Northeastern states in infrastructure, connectivity, and governance, Shri Birla said the region is emerging as a key driver of India’s Act East Policy. He added that promoting local industries, culture, and traditional crafts would help advance the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).

Expressing optimism that the CPA Conference would yield meaningful recommendations to strengthen democratic institutions and refine legislative practices, Shri Birla lauded Nagaland’s hospitality and described the upcoming Hornbill Festival as a celebration of the region’s cultural richness and community spirit.

The event was also attended by Nagaland Chief Minister Shri Neiphiu Rio, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Shri Harivansh, Nagaland Assembly Speaker Shri Sharingain Longkümer, and Nagaland Parliamentary Affairs Minister Shri K.G. Kenye. Legislatures from seven of the eight Northeastern states participated, with a total of 12 presiding officers—including seven Speakers and five Deputy Speakers—attending the conference.