Delhi Assembly Opens British-Era Records to Public and Scholars

New Delhi (RNI) The Delhi Legislative Assembly today opened British-era legislative records to the public and scholars.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla launched the inaugural issue of Vidhan-Chetna, the quarterly journal of the Delhi Legislative Assembly, along with the release of the Proceedings of the Central Legislative Assembly (1924–1930), published across 89 volumes.

The landmark event was attended by Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju and Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly Vijender Gupta.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Birla said that the Delhi Legislative Assembly has filled an important gap in preserving India’s legislative history through the systematic publication of these rare debates and proceedings.

Recalling the contribution of Vithalbhai Patel, the first Indian Speaker of the Central Legislative Assembly, Mr. Birla said Patel steadfastly upheld the dignity of the House, the impartiality of the Chair, and the sanctity of the Speaker’s office even during British rule.

Emphasizing the strength of Indian democracy, Mr. Birla said India’s democratic institutions are rooted in discussion, dialogue, and consensus, and that the country today serves as a global model of democratic values. He expressed hope that the Delhi Legislative Assembly would continue to inspire future generations and contribute towards building a nation where national interest remains paramount above all else.

“If legislative institutions weaken, democracy weakens. Every elected representative has a collective responsibility to protect the dignity of Parliament and Assemblies,” Mr. Rijiju said.L.S.