Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurates 22nd CPA Conference in Kohima

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on November 10 inaugurated the 22nd Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region, Zone–III Conference at the Nagaland Legislative Assembly in Kohima, urging political parties to uphold the dignity of democratic institutions and ensure smooth legislative proceedings.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the conference, Birla stressed that democracy provides ample scope for raising issues through structured debate and discussion, but warned that planned disruptions weaken democratic processes and deprive citizens of accountability. “The orderly conduct of legislative proceedings is paramount,” he said, adding that parliamentary committees, which he described as “mini-parliaments,” play a crucial role in ensuring transparency and non-partisan scrutiny of policies.

Referring to the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament from December 1, the Speaker appealed to all political parties to conduct business with discipline and cooperation. He underlined that legislatures must convert public aspirations into actionable policies and ensure that citizens’ voices are genuinely reflected in policymaking.

Highlighting the importance of digital transformation in legislatures, Birla commended the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for becoming a fully paperless House, calling it a model of transparent governance. He cautioned against the irresponsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and urged lawmakers to adopt the technology in ways that strengthen democratic processes and integrity.

On Centre–State relations, the Speaker said that while both levels of government operate within defined constitutional boundaries, collaboration between them is essential for inclusive development. He observed that recent cooperation between the Centre and Northeastern states has led to visible progress in infrastructure, connectivity, and service delivery.

Birla also called for a comprehensive action plan tailored to the Northeast’s geographical and climate-related challenges. He said sustainable development in the region must incorporate green infrastructure, climate resilience, and community participation. “When public opinion forms the basis of policy, that state achieves continuous and sustainable development,” he noted.

Describing the Northeast as a vital partner in the vision of a self-reliant India, Birla lauded the region’s rapid progress in road, rail, and air connectivity. He said the region’s rich culture, traditions, and natural beauty could drive economic empowerment through the promotion of local industries, crafts, and entrepreneurship.

Concluding his address, Birla expressed confidence that the two-day conference—held under the theme “Policy, Progress & People: Legislatures as Catalysts of Change”—would generate meaningful recommendations to strengthen democratic institutions and legislative efficiency across the region.

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Nagaland Assembly Speaker Sharingain Longkümer, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister K.G. Kenye also addressed the event. Legislatures from seven of the eight Northeastern states participated, with 12 presiding officers—including seven Speakers and five Deputy Speakers—attending the conference.

Extending greetings ahead of the Hornbill Festival, Birla praised Nagaland’s hospitality and cultural vibrancy, calling the festival a symbol of the region’s unity, creativity, and resilience.