Constructive Role of Parliamentary Panel Reports

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla emphasized the constructive role of parliamentary panel reports in governance, urging the government to view them not as criticism but as guidance.

• During the National Conference of Estimates Committees, Birla stated that these committees should not be seen as adversarial.
• He highlighted the importance of officials taking these reports seriously and ensuring timely submission of action-taken reports.

Contribution of Parliamentary Committees

Birla acknowledged the valuable public service experience that members bring to parliamentary committees, which is crucial for effective deliberations.

• He underscored the vision of the founding fathers for democracy to reflect the public's expectations from the government.
• Elected representatives have a duty to ensure these expectations are voiced and met.

Improving Governance and Oversight

Birla advocated for greater transparency in governance at both central and state levels to enhance functionality.

• The two-day conference adopted a resolution to strengthen oversight by setting a minimum number of committee sittings.
• Agreements were made to standardize the number of reports and introduce capacity-building programs for members to enhance budget scrutiny and financial analysis.