Gaya, July 11: India’s Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated a two-day orientation and training program for members of the Bihar Assembly on Saturday at the Bihar Institute of Public Administration and Rural Development in Gaya.
While appreciating the initiative by the presiding officers of the Bihar Assembly and Bihar Legislative Council, along with the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies, the Vice President stated that such programs strengthen democratic institutions by preparing legislators to effectively fulfill their constitutional responsibilities. He thanked the Speaker for hosting the event in Gaya, noting that it symbolically connected Patna to Gaya.
Referencing the ancient republican traditions of Vaishali, Radhakrishnan remarked that the roots of democracy in India run deep, and the region is truly regarded as the birthplace of democracy. He called Bihar a guiding light in India’s democratic journey and urged legislators to uphold its glorious legacy.
Drawing inspiration from the land of Lord Buddha, he emphasized that true knowledge lies in understanding that elected representatives are chosen not to govern but to serve. He stressed that without a developed Bihar, a developed India cannot exist, urging legislators to create opportunities that make Bihar a hub for employment and development, attracting migrant workers from other states.
Reflecting on his connection to the ‘Total Revolution Movement’ led by Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan, Radhakrishnan noted that this movement laid the foundation for his political journey. He also recalled Bihar’s significant role in defending democracy during the freedom struggle and the Emergency period. He reminded legislators that while elections are fought on party lines, governance requires rising above political differences. He stated, “Elections are won by votes, but respect and trust from the people come from selfless service, not power.” He highlighted that every law made, every question raised, and every debate has the potential to improve countless lives.
The Vice President acknowledged that differences in opinions are natural in a democracy, but commitment to the Constitution and public welfare must prevail. He stated that while views in the assembly may differ, the Constitution should be our common guide. He asserted that healthy debates strengthen democracy, while constructive collaboration propels the nation forward.
Emphasizing the importance of question hour, zero hour, and the business advisory committee, he urged members to conduct legislative work smoothly and productively. He noted that these parliamentary processes provide individual legislators with crucial opportunities to address issues affecting their constituents beyond party boundaries. Radhakrishnan stressed the importance of continuous learning, advising legislators to prepare thoroughly before participating in house proceedings and to develop a solid understanding of legislative processes, committee systems, and parliamentary traditions. He also encouraged members to adopt new technologies such as artificial intelligence and natural language processing to enhance legislative efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement.
The Vice President remarked that politics requires patience and dedication. Citing former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s political journey, he noted that despite leading a government that lasted only seven days, Kumar went on to become Bihar’s longest-serving Chief Minister. Comparing politics to Test cricket, he stated that success comes from patience, hard work, and seizing the right opportunities.
He concluded by stating that thoughtful intervention can change policies, well-crafted laws can transform generations, and empathetic decisions can inspire hope among countless citizens. He emphasized that true leadership is not measured by applause within the house but by the trust instilled in the people outside.
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