LS Speaker Om Birla Urges Lawmakers to Rise Above Party Lines on National Issues

Bhubaneswar, Aug 29 – Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Thursday called upon lawmakers to rise above party lines while addressing issues of national importance, expressing concern over the declining quality of debates and growing disruptions in legislatures.

Inaugurating the National Conference of Chairpersons of Committees of Parliament and State Legislatures on the Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Bhubaneswar, Birla reaffirmed the Constitution’s vision of social justice and equality of opportunity as guiding principles of Indian democracy for the past 75 years.

Recalling Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision of an inclusive India, Birla said the nation has gradually moved towards this dream, with Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and other marginalized communities today occupying the highest offices of the land. This, he said, reflects the maturity and inclusiveness of India’s democracy.

He stressed that true empowerment of marginalized communities must go beyond financial assistance, focusing instead on self-reliance, dignity, and growth opportunities. Effective utilisation of funds, robust monitoring of welfare schemes, financial discipline, and accountability, he added, are vital to achieving inclusive development.

Highlighting the role of parliamentary and legislative committees, Birla described them as the backbone of parliamentary democracy. Unlike the politically charged debates in the House, committees provide detailed, non-partisan examinations of issues, offering consensus-based recommendations that ensure effective policymaking and accountability.

Birla noted that committees scrutinize budgets, assess the performance of welfare schemes, and ensure resources are used efficiently for the uplift of Scheduled Castes and Tribes. Their reports, he said, guide policy corrections and strengthen governance.

Reflecting on India’s progress, the Speaker said successive efforts have focused on empowering disadvantaged groups through public sector initiatives, financial institutions, and reforms such as the National Education Policy, which links education with social justice.

Expressing confidence in the conference outcomes, Birla said the deliberations would generate practical ideas and innovative suggestions, contributing to an inclusive society and advancing India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, rooted in justice, equality, and dignity for all citizens.