By Vishwapati
Patna: The two-day 85th Conference of All India Presiding Officers concluded with five significant resolutions. Addressing the media after the closing session, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla stated that five resolutions were adopted in various meetings.
These resolutions include a commitment to the Constitution, ensuring the functioning of legislative bodies aligns with constitutional values and ideals, promoting the smooth operation of legislative institutions, launching campaigns to disseminate constitutional values at the local level, and enhancing the efficiency of legislative institutions through the use of artificial intelligence and technology.
Speaker Birla emphasised that legislative institutions must operate in accordance with the expectations and aspirations of the public. To achieve this, presiding officers will take initiatives independently and engage with political parties. He added that the conference witnessed meaningful discussions, dialogues, and several far-reaching decisions.
The Governor of Bihar, Arif Mohammad Khan, served as the chief guest for the closing session of the conference. In his 28-minute address, the Governor highlighted that democratic traditions are deeply rooted in Indian culture. He traced the origins of Panchayati Raj institutions to the Ganapadhis of Lichchhavi. Citing Dr Ambedkar, he pointed out that many rules of the Buddhist Sangha are reflected in today’s parliamentary system.
The Governor further remarked that the Constitution incorporates ancient ideals and values, with unity forming the core of Indianness. Referring to Shankaracharya, he emphasised the role of spiritual and cultural unity. He called upon presiding officers to act as custodians of the dignity and prestige of democratic institutions.
During the closing session, Speaker Om Birla stated that the Patna Resolution aims to strengthen the constitutional framework and institutions across the country, fostering accountability.
Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh underscored India’s ancient democratic traditions and affirmed that the Patna Conference would serve as a robust link in preserving and advancing these traditions.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sinha, Legislative Assembly Speaker Nand Kishore Yadav, Legislative Council Chairman Awadhesh Narayan Singh, and Deputy Chairman Dr Ram Vachan Rai also addressed the gathering during the closing session.
The author Vishwapati is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com
