Rise above the political divide and work in the public interest, VP tells lawmakers
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma with Vice President CP Radhakrishnan during the inaugural session of ‘Vidhayi Gaurav Yatra’, on the occasion of 75 years of Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, in Jaipur on July 15, 2026. | Photo credit: ANI
Stressing the supremacy of democracy, public service and constitutional values, Deputy Speaker CP Radhakrishnan on Wednesday (July 15, 2026) urged the elected representatives to rise above the political divide between the ruling and opposition parties and work in the public interest.
Mr. Radhakrishnan was speaking here to mark the 75th anniversary of the Rajasthan Assembly in a program called ‘Amrit Mahotsav’. The day-long program was attended by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Governors Haribhau Bagade of Rajasthan and Gulab Chand Kataria of Punjab and a number of political leaders.
Speaking at the valedictory address, Mr. Radhakrishnan said that the deciding factor, which is more important for a legislator than winning elections, is to fulfill the expectations of the people. “Legislators don’t just make laws … They leave a legacy for future generations through their work ethic and values,” he said.
The Deputy Speaker said that the real view of experience does not come from books alone but from those who have served honestly and selflessly in Parliament and State Assemblies. Although differences of opinion are natural in a democracy, loyalty to the people and the constitution must remain paramount, he said.
Mr. Radhakrishnan shared his experience as Rajya Sabha Speaker and said debates and discussions in the House should be constructive and solution-oriented. He emphasized the need for strong democratic institutions and collective efforts to achieve the goal of a developed India by 2047.
In his speech, Mr. Birla said that legislatures are the “school of democracy” where legislators learn the values of dialogue, discipline, consensus and service. He emphasized the role and responsibilities of lawmakers and said they should realize their obligations to the people as democracy is not only supported by constitutional provisions but by public trust, dialogue, dignity and spirit of service.
Mr. Birla said that legislatures serve as forums where governments can understand the aspirations, challenges, criticisms and problems faced by the people through democratic discussion. He said the Rajasthan Assembly instilled in him legislative values as a member that guided him later in his public life.
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully also addressed the programme, during which there was a special discussion on 23 historic laws passed by the State Assembly with an analysis of their social and administrative impacts.
As many as 26 present and former MLAs who were elected six or more times were felicitated on the occasion. The vice president also felicitated seven former assembly speakers, including Sumitra Singh, Kailash Meghwal, CP Joshi and Shantilal Chaplot. Certificates of appreciation and souvenirs were presented to them.
Published – 16 Jul 2026 10:11 IST