Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the newly renovated visitors’ gallery at the Uttar Pradesh state legislative assembly on Monday. Dedicating it to all assembly members and the 25 crore citizens of the state, he emphasised that the legislative assembly serves as the cornerstone of democracy for its people.

Referring to it as the “sacred temple of democracy,” he remarked that a visitor’s first impression of this temple is formed through the visitors’ gallery. He added, “The renovation and beautification of the gallery, undertaken on the recommendation of all members, should bring pride and joy not only to the ruling party but also to the opposition.”

During the inauguration, Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana presented a copy of the original Constitution to the chief minister, all the ministers and the leader of the opposition. The chief minister also unveiled two publications by the assembly, which document the profiles of chief ministers and leaders of the opposition since India’s independence.

Highlighting the legislature’s role as a crucial pillar of democracy, CM Yogi said, “It serves as a significant guiding force and a platform for honourable members to address issues of public interest and development.”

He also lauded the speaker for his efforts over the past two and three-quarter years in strengthening the assembly as a democratic institution while integrating it with modern advancements. He credited the largest assembly in the country with successfully implementing the e-Vidhan system, which has transformed it into a paperless legislature, setting a national example.

CM Yogi described this achievement as a matter of pride for the assembly, the state, and its 25 crore people.

Additionally, he praised the beautification of the assembly’s corridors. He highlighted that the rules, which were established after the formation of the first legislative assembly in 1952, had remained unchanged for decades.

Despite evolving demands over time, necessary amendments had not been made until recently. He stated that these long-overdue updates have now been successfully implemented.

Referring to the Question Hour, he emphasised its importance in fostering true democracy. He noted that members can now ask up to 20 questions to ministers, receiving immediate responses in the House.

“This enables members to act as a bridge for raising public interest issues, ensuring accountability and transparency. Such progress was made possible by amending and modernising the assembly’s rules,” he added.

He also pointed out several milestones achieved in the assembly, such as creating opportunities for members to raise topics of interest and designating special days exclusively for women members to discuss their concerns. These initiatives reflect the inclusive and progressive approach of the House.

The CM remarked on the significance of a newly published book by the Vidhan Sabha’s research library. He said, “The book chronicles the leaders of the House and leaders of the opposition from 1952 to the present, providing valuable insights into the contributions of various luminaries who have upheld the dignity of the assembly. It details the issues they addressed and their role in advancing development.”

He emphasised that democracy and the legislature thrive on the combined efforts of both the ruling party and the opposition, likening them to the two wheels of democracy. For a robust democracy, dialogue and discussion are essential, even when differences arise.

“Through dialogue, solutions can be found,” he said, urging all members to embrace open communication.

He also encouraged every member to keep a copy of the book for their understanding and as a legacy for future generations, fostering awareness of the assembly’s rich history and its role in shaping governance.

The CM remarked that the speaker has given another meaningful gift ahead of the upcoming session. He noted that India is approaching the 75th anniversary of the implementation of its Constitution, which will be completed on January 26, 2025.

On this occasion, the chief minister suggested that all “honourable members” should be provided with an original copy of the Constitution drafted by the committee led by Baba Saheb Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar.

He urged members to read it, emphasising that each page reflects the essence of India and offers a profound glimpse into the nation’s values and aspirations. Speaking about renovating the visitors’ gallery, UP Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana highlighted its transformation. He observed that government delegations visiting parliaments and assemblies worldwide often draw inspiration from their design and significance.