Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren Calls Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha "Temples of Democracy", Highlights Inclusivity and Responsibility

Ranchi, March 1: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Saturday described the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha as the "biggest temples of democracy," emphasizing their role as inclusive institutions accessible to all, without discrimination or restriction.

Soren made these remarks while inaugurating a two-day training-cum-orientation program designed for the newly elected members of the sixth Jharkhand Legislative Assembly. The event, held at the state assembly's conference hall, aimed to familiarize legislators with the parliamentary system, legislative processes, and house decorum.

Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha: Institutions Without Discrimination​

Addressing the legislators, Chief Minister Soren said, "Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha are the greatest temples of democracy. This is the only temple where no one faces discrimination or restriction in entering. It is our responsibility to preserve the dignity and grandeur of this temple."

He further added, "I won't comment on how far and to whom the voices of temples, mosques, or Gurudwaras reach, but the voice of the temple of democracy reaches everyone—be it Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, the rich, or the poor."

Assembly Composition Reflects Diverse Experience​

Highlighting the diverse makeup of the current assembly, Soren noted, "This time, we have a good mix of senior and first-time members. There are 20 members who have been elected for the first time. Twenty-four members have been elected for a second term, 17 for a third term, 12 for a fourth term, four for a fifth term, one for a sixth term, two for a seventh term, and one member, Stephen Marandi, has been elected for the ninth time. With this combination and the cooperation of all, we will take this state forward."

Training Focuses on Parliamentary Practices​

Jharkhand Assembly Speaker Rabindra Nath Mahato led the training session, providing legislators with detailed insights into house procedures, parliamentary etiquette, and legislative functions. Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh also contributed to the session, sharing extensive knowledge about parliamentary processes and house functioning.

BJP's CP Singh Advocates for Longer Assembly Sessions​

Speaking during the occasion, senior BJP legislator CP Singh called for longer assembly sessions to adequately address constituency-related issues. "Every government prefers shorter assembly sessions, but across all governments, the total number of assembly days in a year rarely exceeds 35. I believe there should be a law that mandates at least 60 days of sessions in a year for states like Jharkhand, where there are 81 members in the assembly. Shorter sessions don't allow enough time to address the issues faced by members and their constituencies," Singh asserted.

The two-day training program aims to empower assembly members with the knowledge and practices necessary for effective legislative participation, ultimately enhancing governance and democratic function in Jharkhand.