Andhra Speaker tells members not to lower the dignity of the Assembly
Vijayawada: AP speaker Chintakayala Ayyanna Patrudu on Thursday made an emotional appeal in the State Legislative Assembly on Thursday, asking members to uphold the dignity and decorum of the House.
“No one has the right to lower the stature of such a revered institution,” the speaker underlined in the wake of developments that unfolded during the Governor’s address of the joint sitting of the AP legislatures on Wednesday. He expressed deep anguish over the conduct of certain members, observing that such actions risk tarnishing the sanctity of the House.
Referring to the scenes witnessed during the Governor’s speech, Ayyannapatrudu said he is deeply disturbed. “The visuals of members raising slogans and tearing papers while the Governor is addressing the House pained me greatly. Such behaviour does not reflect well on this august Assembly,” he remarked.
The speaker reminded members that getting elected to the Assembly is a rare honour, achieved after intense competition among thousands of aspirants. “Out of lakhs who aspire, only 175 members earn the privilege of sitting in this House. It is a distinction that carries immense responsibility. Safeguarding its dignity is the collective duty of every member,” he maintained.
Recalling initiatives aimed at strengthening democratic values among the youth, Ayyanna Patrudu pointed out that HRD minister Nara Lokesh had conceptualised the Mock Assembly programmes to familiarise students and young citizens about the functioning of legislative institutions. The programme, he said, has received nationwide recognition and appreciation from representatives of other states as well.
“Across the state, students from more than 200 educational institutions are eager to observe the Assembly proceedings. What lessons will these young minds learn from our conduct,” he asked, voicing concern that any disrespect developing among students towards legislatures could have lasting consequences.
The speaker underlined that while members may not always succeed in enhancing the stature of the House, they certainly have no right to diminish it. “People are watching our every move. Let us introspect and ensure that our actions strengthen, not weaken, public faith in democratic institutions,” he stated.
