SEP 13: Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, participated in the 11th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Conference held in Bengaluru. Addressing the session on the theme “Debates & Discussions in the Houses of Legislature: Building People’s Trust, Meeting People’s Aspirations,” he underlined the critical role of constructive parliamentary debates in a vibrant democracy.
In his address, Rather described debates as the soul of democracy, emphasizing that legislative discussions must remain rooted in the aspirations of the people. He stressed that the focus of assemblies should be on real issues affecting citizens, such as inclusive growth, equitable development, and problem-solving that reflects the needs of all sections of society.
Calling upon legislators to uphold the dignity of the House, Rather urged members to maintain decorum, avoid unnecessary disruptions, and engage in meaningful discourse. “Parliamentary discussions should not be reduced to noise and confrontation,” he said, adding that responsible conduct in legislatures is essential to strengthening public trust in democratic institutions.
On the sidelines of the conference, the Speaker met with CPA Secretary General Stephen Twigg. During the interaction, he expressed gratitude for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s membership in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Twigg, in turn, invited Abdul Rahim Rather to participate in the forthcoming CPA international conference scheduled in Barbados, further enhancing J&K’s engagement with global parliamentary forums.
The Bengaluru conference brought together legislative leaders from across India to deliberate on strengthening democratic institutions, fostering transparency, and bridging the gap between legislatures and the public. Speakers highlighted the need to modernize legislative practices while preserving the traditions of healthy debate and accountability.
Rather’s participation in the conference reinforced Jammu and Kashmir’s active role in national and international parliamentary exchanges, with a strong message that democratic institutions must always remain responsive to people’s hopes and aspirations.
