New Delhi [India], June 30 (ANI): Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday extended greetings on the occasion of the International Day of Parliamentarism, saying Parliament is the supreme expression of the people's aspirations, rights and trust, and plays a vital role in safeguarding democracy and citizens' rights.

In a post on X, Birla highlighted the significance of parliamentary institutions in strengthening democratic values and ensuring accountable governance.

'Heartfelt greetings to all elected representatives on International Day of Parliamentarism and to the world's democratic institutions. Parliament is the supreme expression of the people's aspirations, rights, and trust, where ideas are debated, policies are crafted, and the direction of the nation's future is determined. A strong, independent, and accountable parliament alone serves as the true strength of democracy and the greatest guardian of citizens' rights,' Birla said.

The Lok Sabha Speaker said that as the Parliament of India, the world's largest democracy, it has consistently upheld the spirit of the Constitution, democratic traditions and the legacy of people's representation.

https://x.com/ombirlakota/status/2071780802887831742

'As the parliament of India, the world's largest democracy, it has always powerfully upheld the spirit of the Constitution, democratic traditions, and the glorious legacy of people's representation. In our country, brimming with diversity, Parliament is a platform for national unity, social harmony, and constitutional values, where the voice of every region, every class, and every citizen finds a place,' he said.

Birla further emphasised that the role of Parliament extends beyond lawmaking, stating, 'In today's era, the role of Parliament is not confined merely to legislative functions; it also bears the vital responsibility of ensuring governmental accountability, encouraging meaningful deliberations on issues of public interest, upholding the dignity of democratic institutions, and establishing a balance between citizens' rights and duties.'

Calling the occasion an opportunity for introspection, he said, 'International Day of Parliamentarism provides us the opportunity to resolve to further strengthen the soul of democracy--dialogue, consensus, responsibility, transparency, and constitutional decorum.'

The International Day of Parliamentarism, also known as World Parliament Day, is observed globally on June 30. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018 and spearheaded by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the day marks the anniversary of the IPU's founding in 1889. (ANI)