Issues related to opening speeches in the Indian Parliament and State Assemblies – Rescuing grace from disgrace

Source: The post Issues related to opening speeches in the Indian Parliament and State Assemblies has been created, based on the article “Rescuing grace from disgrace” published in “The Hindu” on 15th February 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 – Indian Polity – Parliament and State Legislatures – Structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues

News: This article discusses how in India, the President and Governors read speeches written by the government at legislative openings. These speeches are long and follow British tradition. Issues related to opening speeches in the Indian Parliament and State Assemblies

What is the current practice for opening speeches in the Indian Parliament and State Assemblies?

Speeches Written by Government: The speeches for the opening sessions of Parliament and State Assemblies are drafted by the government, not by the President or Governors.

Late Receipt of Drafts: The President and Governors receive the drafts close to the event, making it hard to suggest changes.

Constitutional Provisions:

Article 87 of the Constitution: It mandates the President to address both Houses of Parliament at the beginning of the first session after each general election and the first session of each year.

Article 176 (1) of the Constitution: At the commencement of the first session after each general election to the Legislative Assembly and at the commencement of the first session of each year, the Governor shall address the Legislative Assembly or, in the case of a State having a Legislative Council, both Houses assembled together and inform the Legislature of the causes of its summons.

What issues arise from the current practice?

Lengthy and Tedious Speeches: The speeches are long and can be tiring for the audience, as noted by President R. Venkataraman.

Limited Personal Input: Presidents and Governors often receive speech drafts too late for meaningful review or personalization.

Writer-Reader Dichotomy: There’s a disconnect between the government (writer) and the President or Governors (readers) of the speech.

Resistance to Change: Attempts to reform the practice, like President Venkataraman’s suggestion to shorten speeches, have met resistance.

Potential for Interruptions and Controversies: The lengthy nature of the speeches can lead to interruptions and controversies in the legislative assemblies.

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What should be done?

Adopt Shorter Speeches: Following President Venkataraman’s suggestion, inspired by the UK’s practice, speeches should be concise, outlining only key policies and legislative agendas.

Timely Draft Reviews: Allow Presidents and Governors enough time to review and suggest changes to the speeches, avoiding last-minute rushes.

Streamline Writer-Reader Collaboration: Foster earlier collaboration between the government (writers) and the President or Governors (readers) for better-aligned speeches.

Focus on Legislative Efficiency: By shortening the speeches, legislative sessions can become more efficient, reducing tedium and potential for interruptions.

Respect Political Civility: Encourage respect for the speech process to maintain decorum and reduce controversies in legislative assemblies.

Emphasize Clear and Accessible Language: The positive response to the Governor’s speech in Hindi in Bihar, which was well-received and uninterrupted, underscores the importance of delivering speeches in a language that is accessible and resonates with the audience. This ensures effective communication and dignified proceedings in legislative assemblies.

Question for practice:

Examine the current practices and issues surrounding opening speeches in the Indian Parliament and State Assemblies.