Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Apr 11: P A Gajapathi Raju on Friday expressed concern over frequent disruptions and short legislative sessions, stating that such trends weaken lawmakers’ ability to effectively discharge their constitutional responsibilities.

Addressing the valedictory function of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association India Region Zone VII Conference, he stressed that legislators must be given adequate time to raise issues affecting citizens. “Frequent disruptions or limited sittings diminish the opportunity for meaningful debate and weaken the ability of legislators to perform their constitutional functions,” he said.

Raju underlined that sufficient sittings are crucial to ensure proper legislative functioning, financial scrutiny, and attention to public issues. He highlighted that the effectiveness of legislatures depends on both the number of working days and the quality and productivity of deliberations within the House.

Emphasising the importance of the opposition in a democracy, he said it is not merely a political adversary but an integral component of the democratic framework. “Democracy thrives when governments and opposition alike work together within the institutional framework of legislatures,” he noted.

The governor also called for a balanced approach to development, urging policymakers to prioritise environmental sustainability alongside growth.

“Our Parliament and state legislatures are not merely institutions to make laws. They are the primary forum through which the voice of the people finds expression. For democracy to flourish, a healthy debate within legislative bodies is essential,” he said.

Also present at the event, Om Birla said that disagreement is a sign of a healthy democracy but disruptions are not. “The House is meant for discussions and debate on issues. It should be conducted appropriately with agreement and dissent, but disruption is not acceptable,” he said, urging political parties and MPs to maintain decorum and avoid sloganeering and unparliamentary language.