Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (DD)
Mangaluru, May 9: For the first time in its history, Karnataka will host the prestigious All-India Speakers’ Conference, scheduled to take place in Bengaluru from September 8 to 10, 2025. Speaker of the Karnataka legislative assembly U T Khader made the announcement at a press meet held at the Circuit House here on Friday, May 9.
Organised under the banner of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), the conference is expected to bring together 300 to 350 delegates, including speakers and deputy speakers, chairpersons and deputy chairpersons of legislative houses, legislative secretaries, and prominent dignitaries including the president and vice president of India. International speakers will also take part, lending the event global relevance.
Khader stated that although a similar meeting was held 24 years ago, this upcoming conference is a distinct one, hosted under the CPA framework. He emphasised that the event, held once every 25 years, will provide a platform to discuss democratic practices, good governance, and the evolving role of parliamentary institutions.
“This is the first time Karnataka is hosting such a conference. It is happening during my term and that of legislative council chairman Basavaraj Horatti. We will conduct the event in an exemplary manner,” he said. “The discussions will focus on strengthening parliamentary procedures, the role of speakers, and pressing current issues.”
He added that the All-India Speakers’ Conference was held in Rajasthan the year before last, and in New Delhi last year. “Now, for the first time, this opportunity has come to Karnataka. It will be a model event,” he said.
The inaugural ceremony will be held at 6 pm on September 8 at the steps of the Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru, in the presence of the chief minister of Karnataka and the speaker of the Lok Sabha. The themes and keynote speakers will be finalised in consultation with the Lok Sabha leadership and the host state.
A one-day tour will be arranged on September 11 for delegates to explore Karnataka’s cultural and historical landmarks, with visits planned to either Mangaluru, Mysuru, or Belur-Halebeedu.
Khader also mentioned that the international conference of the CPA will be held in Bermuda in November, further highlighting the year’s significance for global parliamentary dialogue.
Khader bats for coastal protection, says no objection to NIA probe in Suhas Shetty murder case
On the local front, Khader addressed the issue of coastal erosion and stressed the urgent need for a permanent sea wall in vulnerable areas of the Mangaluru shoreline. “Work on this coastal protection project will begin soon to ensure the safety of affected regions,” he said.
Reacting to questions about the BJP's demand for an NIA probe into the Suhas Shetty murder case, Khader said he had no objection. “The current police investigation hasn’t satisfied many. If there’s evidence of international funding behind the act, I have no objection to handing the case over to the NIA. Whoever is behind this heinous crime must face strict punishment,” he said.
“My only concern is that such incidents should not disrupt peace and harmony in Dakshina Kannada district. I do not support those who commit wrongdoing, and the people of my constituency are well aware of this. In the tense atmosphere that prevailed then, I shared whatever information I had with the public, to maintain peace. That is the relationship I have with my people,” he added.
Refuting criticism that he had attended a cricket match amid the incident, Khader clarified, “I was invited to many events including cricket matches, weddings, and public functions. I did not attend the cricket match that day as alleged. Regardless of who is involved in this crime, they must face the law. That is my clear and firm stance.”
Responding to political attacks, he said, “Such allegations and criticisms are not new to me. Since my first term as MLA, these have followed me. Those who trust me will not give weight to such remarks. In a democracy, everyone has the right to speak.”
Khader concluded by expressing pride in Karnataka being chosen to host such a high-profile event. “This is not just about Karnataka. It’s about strengthening democracy across the nation. The event will place our state on the global parliamentary map.”