Strong Democracy is Based on Dialogue and Meaningful Public Participation: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

The silver jubilee celebrations marking the completion of 25 years of the Goa Assembly building were inaugurated by the Governor of Goa, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju. Addressing the gathering on this occasion, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla stated that a strong democracy is based on dialogue, diverse ideas, and meaningful public participation. He emphasized that legislatures serve as platforms for discussion, debate, and the exchange of ideas, and that democracy becomes stronger when the legislative process accommodates dissent and diverse perspectives alongside consensus.

Referring to India's growing global influence, Shri Birla noted that the commitment to constitutional values has strengthened the country's voice in the world. He mentioned that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is contributing to the resolution of global challenges guided by the values of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'. The Lok Sabha Speaker added that the true strength of democracy lies in how the aspirations of the people are translated into policies, laws, and effective governance.

Discussing the importance of technology, Shri Birla stated that technology can be used to enhance citizens' understanding of legislative processes, leading to greater transparency and accessibility. He called for 'healthy competition' among state legislatures to adopt innovations and learn from each other's best practices. Emphasizing the participation of youth in democratic institutions, he said that inputs from young people, who are leading in education, research, and innovation, would make it possible to create better laws.

Regarding Goa, he remarked that the state has maintained a meaningful balance between economic development and the preservation of its natural heritage and environment. He urged the Goa Assembly to prepare a visionary roadmap for the next 25 years, aligned with the vision of 'Viksit Bharat', involving the participation of citizens, women, and youth.

During the ceremony, the Lok Sabha Speaker released a 'customized My Stamp and Special Cover with Special Cancellation' of the Goa Assembly and Secretariat building and honored eminent personalities. Several dignitaries, including Goa Chief Minister Shri Pramod Sawant, Assembly Speaker Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Legislative Affairs Minister Shri Mauvin Godinho, and Leader of Opposition Shri Yuri Alemao, also shared their views on the occasion.