Bengaluru, Sep 11 (UNI) Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla today stressed the crucial role of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in strengthening India’s democratic institutions, during the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India event organized at the Karnataka Assembly.
Highlighting Bengaluru’s status as a global hub of IT and science, Birla said the use of digital platforms and AI can make legislative institutions more accessible to citizens, enhance transparency, and ensure that even the voices of society’s most marginalized reach decision-making bodies.
He pointed to initiatives such as the “Digital Parliament,” which brings the proceedings of state legislative assemblies and the central Parliament onto a single platform. This, he said, allows legislators and citizens alike to observe debates, discussions, and budgets, and enables the sharing of best practices across states to improve governance and institutional efficiency.
Birla emphasized that integrating technology is essential for ensuring that legislative institutions function effectively and remain close to the people.
Referring to Karnataka’s historical and contemporary significance, Birla described the state as “the Mother of Democracy,” where the heritage of democratic traditions has flourished alongside modernity. He highlighted Karnataka’s contribution to India’s progress across fields ranging from technology and science to spirituality and freedom movements, noting that the state exemplifies the coexistence of heritage and modern development.
Speaking on the essence of Indian democracy, Birla said the country’s Constitution, framed with deliberation and consensus by Dr BR Ambedkar and other framers, has preserved democratic traditions and allowed India to remain the world’s largest and strongest democracy despite linguistic, cultural, and ideological diversity. He expressed gratitude to the Constitution makers for creating a system that continues to guide the nation and foster unity amidst diversity.
On the role of elected representatives, Birla underscored that citizens expect their concerns, challenges, and aspirations to be addressed in legislative assemblies and Parliament. The CPA platform, he explained, provides an opportunity for presiding officers and lawmakers to engage in dialogue, share best practices, and improve procedural efficiency to enhance accountability, transparency, and governance.
Birla stressed the importance of assemblies and Parliament as platforms for structured discussion, where debates on national and state issues, current circumstances, and future challenges can be conducted constructively. He warned against disruptions and deadlocks, calling on all political parties and representatives to uphold the dignity and prestige of these institutions.
He highlighted the need for capacity building among legislators, especially first-time MPs and women lawmakers, through training programs that enable them to express their perspectives effectively. Birla emphasized that the quality of debate and dialogue in assemblies directly contributes to the prestige of elected representatives and the effectiveness of governance.
Pointing to the strength of Indian democracy, he said even the voice of society’s last person reaches legislative bodies, demonstrating the inclusivity and resilience of democratic institutions. He urged political parties to use parliamentary platforms for meaningful discussion, embracing differences of opinion while prioritizing public welfare.
Birla concluded by thanking the Chief Minister of Karnataka and the Speaker of the Karnataka Assembly for successfully hosting the three-day CPA event. He expressed confidence that the conference would yield meaningful outcomes, strengthen legislative institutions, and foster greater public trust in democracy.
Om Birla highlights role of AI in empowering legislatures
