Lok Sabha Speaker Birla considers dissent essential for democracy

Om Birla at the inaugural session of ‘Janpratinidhi Sammelan’ (Conference of Public Representatives) organized as part of ‘Samvidhan Pakhwada’ (Constitution Fortnight) by Haryana Legislative Assembly in Panchkula. Photo credit: X/loksabhaspeaker

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday (November 2, 2026) said that in a democracy, differences of opinion and perspective are natural and there can be both agreement and disagreement.

Dissent must also be respected, he said while addressing the inaugural session of the ‘Janpratinidhi Sammelan’ (Conference of Public Representatives) organized as part of ‘Samvidhan Pakhwada’ (Constitution Fortnight) by the Haryana Legislative Assembly in Panchkula.

“Dissent provides direction, offers vision and inspires people to work. Despite differing views, everyone must make a concerted effort to move the country and the state forward,” Birla said. He added that running a government is a responsibility, but public service is an even greater responsibility.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Haryana Assembly Speaker Harvinder Kalyan, Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda along with ministers and MLAs were present on the occasion.

Hooda on key challenges in the state

Mr. Hooda said that sixty years after its formation, Haryana continued to face many challenges that urgently needed introspection. He said there are currently around 80 criminal gangs operating in the state.

“Haryana has slipped to 14th position in terms of fiscal health. It is 15th in terms of borrowing and 11th in SDGs. Serious introspection is also required on the issue of unemployment,” he said.

“At the time of its inception, the state was backward in terms of economic, industrial and educational development, with a per capita income of only around ₹540. During these six decades, Haryana has made remarkable progress in the field of education and literacy. The literacy rate has increased from 20% to around 78%. Today, the state has more than 61 universities, colleges and colleges like IIM Prestige law schools. We are proud of this progress Haryana has made,” he added.

Published – 03 Nov 2026 0:32 IST