New Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker, Shri Om Birla, presided over the National Conference of Law Students, organised under the auspices of the Indian Parliamentary Group at the Central Hall of Parliament, today. Union Minister of Law and Justice, Shri Kiren Rijiju; Deputy Chairman Rajya Sabha, Shri Harivansh; Chairman, Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice Shri Sushil Kumar Modi; Chairman, Standing Committee on External Affairs, Shri P.P. Chaudhary also graced the occasion
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Birla highlighted the constitutional spirit of separation of powers and said that the framers of our Constitution envisaged that all organs of the State would work in harmony with each other in order to ensure citizens’ welfare. Every organ of the State should function within the constitutional mandate without infringing on others’ domain. Laws are made for welfare of the people and it should be the endeavour of every organ of the State to further people’s welfare, said Shri Birla.
Emphasizing on duties of citizens, Shri Birla said that our Constitution is a unique blend of Rights and Duties. As we are celebrating 75 years of Independence, the youth of India should reorient themselves for the fulfillment of their fundamental duties, in national interest. If we discharge our responsibilities sincerely and diligently with commitment towards the national goals and Constitutional values, our nation will be able to take rapid strides on the path of progress and our democracy will become more enriched and mature.
Shri Birla also informed that as the world has become more inter-connected and technology driven, we need to be more proactive in use of information and communication tools in the interest of public welfare. The Speaker further informed that all steps are being taken to bring all legislative processes across the nation on one platform with the idea of One Nation One Platform using innovative solutions based on the latest in Information and Communication Technology. He added that a new India based on new technology is emerging and all citizens must work towards meaningful socio-economic change by making use of latest technologies. As India develops, the world also develops, said Shri Birla.
Union Minister of Law and Justice Shri Kiren Rijiju spoke about the Constitutional provisions regarding separation of powers and said that our constitutional system hinges on a careful balance and therefore organs of the State must stay within the limits defined by the Constitution. No organ should transgress on the powers of the other. He further added that Constitution is Supreme but sovereignty lies with the people. Constitution is embodiment of the expression of people, said the Minister. Speaking about the global importance of Indian democracy, Shri Rijiju said that being the world’s largest democracy India is too important for the world’s democratic legacy.
Deputy Chairman Rajya Sabha, Shri Harivansh in his address said that Constituent Assembly Debates are treasure of information. He also highlighted the important role played by unsung heroes and women in the Constitution making process. Highlighting the fine balance between the three organs of the State, Shri Harivansh said that every organ should respect the powers and functions of the other. The Deputy Chairman urged the young student community to focus on their duties and to provide legal aid which will further help in administration of justice. Emphasizing on the need for framing of laws at an appropriate time, Shri Harivansh said that delayed laws have tremendous socio-economic cost. Laws should be made at an appropriate time, should be regularly reviewed and should be eliminated when become obsolete and redundant. He also called for evidence-based policy making to be an integral part of governance.
Rajya Sabha Member and President of Indian Council of Cultural Relations Dr. Vinay P. Sahasrabuddhe gave the Welcome Address.
Secretary General Lok Sabha Shri Utpal Kumar Singh delivered the Vote of Thanks.
Later, the Plenary Sessions on “Separation of Powers enshrined in the Constitution of India” were conducted by Chairpersons of Standing Committees of External Affairs and Personnel, Public Grievances, Law & Justice.
