Kultar Singh Sandhwan Attends 85th All India Presiding Officer’s Conference and Pays Homage at Vaishali Stupa
Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker, S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan, took part in the 85th All India Presiding Officer’s Conference held in Patna, Bihar, from January 21-22, 2025. The event, which gathered presiding officers from various states, focused on strengthening the democratic processes and enhancing the dignity of Indian democracy. In addition to his conference participation, Sandhwan also visited the historic Vaishali Stupa, a sacred site linked to Lord Buddha and the birthplace of the world’s first Republic.
Speaker Sandhwan’s Address at the Conference
During his address at the conference, Speaker Sandhwan commended Shri Om Birla, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and Shri Nand Kishore Yadav, the Speaker of the Bihar Legislative Assembly, for their leadership and collective efforts in fortifying the pillars of democracy in India. Sandhwan stressed the importance of the Indian Constitution, not merely as a historical document but as a dynamic and guiding framework for modern democracy.
He highlighted the role of all citizens, emphasizing that it is the duty of every Indian, not just the legislature, executive, and judiciary, to uphold the Constitution. Sandhwan noted that the struggles for freedom that led to the drafting of the Constitution were part of India’s ongoing journey toward strengthening democratic values. His address focused on how India’s democracy continues to evolve through collective responsibility.
Concerns Over Educational Gaps and Proposed Reforms
During the conference, Sandhwan raised concerns about the limited scope of current educational material in school syllabi. While acknowledging the importance of children learning about democracy, he pointed out that school curricula often fail to provide a comprehensive understanding of the functioning of Parliament and legislative bodies. Sandhwan proposed that schoolchildren should be encouraged to attend legislative sessions, giving them a firsthand look at the workings of democratic institutions. This experience, he believes, will foster a deeper understanding of governance and create a generation more engaged in the democratic process.
As part of this initiative, the Punjab Vidhan Sabha has begun inviting students to observe House sessions. Sandhwan emphasized that this initiative could have a significant impact on young minds, encouraging them to understand democracy from a practical perspective.
Visit to Vaishali Stupa: Celebrating India’s Historical Legacy
In addition to the conference, Speaker Sandhwan paid his respects at the Vaishali Stupa, located in Bihar. Vaishali holds historical significance as the birthplace of the world’s first Republic, a place where democratic principles were first practiced more than 2,500 years ago. Sandhwan expressed his pride in visiting this sacred site and praised its role in the historical evolution of democracy.
During his visit, he also called for efforts to promote and preserve Vaishali’s heritage globally. He underscored the need for collective efforts to elevate the importance of this significant site and bring attention to India’s rich cultural and democratic history.
Warm Reception and AAP’s Contributions
Sandhwan was warmly welcomed in Bihar by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) spokesperson Dr. Hem Narayan Vishwakarma and AAP leader Bablu Prakash. As a token of goodwill, they presented him with a statue of Lord Buddha, symbolizing both respect and the shared values of peace and democracy. Sandhwan expressed his deep appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to him during his visit.
He also thanked Shri Nand Kishore Yadav, Speaker of the Bihar Vidhan Sabha, for the excellent arrangements made for the conference and his stay in Patna. Sandhwan highlighted the collaboration between Punjab and Bihar and stressed the importance of cross-state cooperation to promote democratic values.
Significance of the Conference for India’s Democratic Fabric
The 85th All India Presiding Officer’s Conference is an important event in India’s political calendar. It provides a platform for presiding officers from various legislative bodies to discuss key issues affecting the functioning of Indian democracy. This year’s conference aimed to address challenges related to the functioning of legislative bodies, encourage more inclusive governance, and share best practices for effective parliamentary procedures.
Speaker Sandhwan’s participation in this forum underscores Punjab’s commitment to promoting the values of democracy and fostering educational reforms that enhance the understanding of democratic processes among young people. His advocacy for involving students in legislative proceedings is seen as an innovative step in creating a more politically aware generation.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Democracy Through Education and Dialogue
Speaker Sandhwan’s trip to Patna and his remarks at the conference illustrate his deep commitment to both strengthening democratic practices and advancing educational reforms. His call for improving school syllabi and encouraging students to engage with the legislative process highlights the importance of preparing future generations to participate in India’s democracy actively.
With a focus on educational reform and democratic engagement, Sandhwan’s vision for the future involves empowering citizens—especially the youth—with the knowledge and tools necessary to contribute meaningfully to India’s democratic journey.
Conclusion: Promoting India’s Democratic Heritage
- Kultar Singh Sandhwan’s visit to the 85th All India Presiding Officer’s Conference and his homage to the Vaishali Stupa symbolize a deep respect for India’s democratic heritage and the importance of educating the next generation about its value. His efforts in fostering stronger connections between education and democracy are crucial for building a more informed and active electorate.