NEW DELHI: On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla urged the newly elected members of the Delhi Legislative Assembly to transform it into a model legislature, emphasizing that the expectations and aspirations of the people from the new government are exceptionally high. Speaking at the inaugural session of the two-day Orientation Programme for Delhi Vidhan Sabha members, Birla underscored the responsibility of legislators to go beyond their individual constituencies and work towards the overall development of Delhi. He highlighted that, as a microcosm of India, Delhi represents diverse cultures, religions, and languages, making it essential for lawmakers to address the needs of all communities.
The Orientation Programme, jointly organized by Delhi Vidhan Sabha and the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) under the Lok Sabha Secretariat, aims to equip MLAs with the knowledge and skills required for effective governance. The event saw participation from Union Ministers, Members of Parliament from Delhi, and MLAs, alongside Leader of Opposition Atishi and Deputy Speaker Mohan Singh Bisht. With a strong focus on ethical governance, legislative efficiency, and democratic accountability, the event set the foundation for the new Delhi Assembly to function as an exemplary legislature for the nation.
Encouraging MLAs to explore innovative solutions to public issues, Om Birla emphasized the importance of sharing ideas and experiences to enhance governance. He noted that successful legislative innovations from Delhi could serve as a model for other states. Additionally, he urged members to uphold democratic values, follow established procedures, and preserve the dignity of the House, stressing that dialogue and consensus should take precedence over disruptions. Birla also highlighted the role of technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in making legislative processes more efficient and accountable.
He further reiterated that the opposition must play a constructive role in democracy, ensuring that debates remain meaningful and dignified. Emphasizing the importance of legislative committees, which he referred to as “mini-legislatures”, Birla encouraged MLAs to participate actively in committee meetings. He also highlighted the significance of legislative drafting, noting that public representatives skilled in drafting laws could make substantial contributions to policy-making and public service delivery.
Meanwhile, Delhi Legislative Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta extended a warm welcome to Om Birla and the legislators, stressing that the Orientation Programme serves as a platform to enhance legislative knowledge and democratic values. He urged the newly elected members to thoroughly study the rule book and Code of Conduct, ensuring compliance with parliamentary procedures. Gupta emphasized the crucial role of legislative committees in governance and announced that their formation would take place in the upcoming financial year. Quoting former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he reminded members that governments may change, but the nation and democracy must always endure.
Additionally, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta addressed the gathering, reaffirming her commitment to Delhi’s progress and prosperity. She expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her leadership and underscored the importance of utilizing time effectively for the welfare of the people. She emphasized the need for a harmonious political environment and called for cooperation between the ruling party and the opposition to ensure continuous development. “The people of Delhi have placed immense trust in us. Every moment is precious and must be used wisely. Our shared goal is the advancement of Delhi, and the atmosphere of cooperation we have today should continue for the next five years