Emphasizing Equality: Om Birla Highlights the Core Principle of the Indian Constitution at IPU’s 150th Assembly in Tashkent

Tashkent, Uzbekistan – Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla recently addressed the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), where he emphasized the inclusive spirit of the Indian Constitution. He noted that the Constitution aims to provide equality and opportunities for all citizens, especially those from marginalized communities.

In his keynote speech on "Parliamentary Action for Social Development and Justice," Birla pointed out the Indian Parliament’s focus on social justice. Recently passed laws, like the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act and the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, reflect this commitment. These laws are designed to protect vulnerable groups and create a more inclusive society. Moreover, new labor codes have been introduced to improve welfare for workers in the unorganized sector.

Birla mentioned the significance of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, which replaces the Indian Penal Code. This change underscores the importance of justice in the country’s legal framework. He highlighted the work of various Parliamentary Committees, often called Mini Parliaments, which monitor and ensure effective implementation of social welfare programs.

He also praised the Ayushman Bharat scheme, the world’s largest health insurance program, which provides free health coverage for 40% of India’s population. This initiative is part of India’s broader mission to achieve key human development goals.

Birla commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, noting that India has become the fastest-growing major economy, with significant achievements in innovation and technology. India’s economy is currently the fifth-largest globally and is on track to become the third-largest, reflecting a strong trajectory towards a prosperous future.

On the international stage, Birla emphasized the role of the IPU in fostering global parliamentary cooperation. He shared how discussions at the IPU Assembly could inspire lawmakers worldwide to create equitable societies.

During the summit, Birla also met with Tran Thanh Man, President of Vietnam’s National Assembly. They reminisced about the 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Vietnam and discussed enhancing cooperation in defense, technology, and infrastructure.

Digital advancements like the "Digital Parliament" initiative are improving India’s parliamentary processes, making them more transparent and efficient. Meanwhile, a significant number of Vietnamese students are benefiting from educational scholarships in India, strengthening cultural ties.

As nations face global challenges, Birla’s vision for parliamentary action emphasizes inclusivity, cooperation, and progress, building bridges between countries and cultures for a better future.

For more on India’s initiatives in social justice and international cooperation, visit the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

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Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla, Parliament, Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam