Patna: The All India Conference of Presiding Officers, the apex body of India’s legislative institutions, is set to be held in the Bihar Legislative Assembly on January 20-21, marking its return to the state after 42 years. This prestigious gathering will bring together Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, and presiding officers from the legislative bodies of 28 states and six legislative councils.
The conference will focus on the theme, “Role of Parliament and Legislative Bodies in Strengthening the Constitutional System”, with discussions spanning two days. Arrangements have been meticulously planned to ensure the smooth conduct of the event, highlighting Bihar’s legislative and cultural heritage.
Key Attendees and Seating Arrangements
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will occupy the chamber of Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary in the Assembly, while Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh will be hosted in the chamber of Parliamentary Affairs Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary. The Secretary General of the Lok Sabha will use the chamber of former Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, and the Secretary General of the Rajya Sabha will be accommodated in the chamber of the Leader of Opposition, Tejashwi Yadav.
Accommodation and Cultural Tour
Guests, including speakers and chairpersons, will stay at Hotel Taj, while general secretaries and secretaries will be accommodated at Hotel Maurya. After the conclusion of the conference on January 21, participants will embark on a cultural tour of Patna, visiting iconic landmarks such as Takhat Shri Harmandir Sahib Gurudwara, Bapu Tower, Sabhyata Dwar, Bihar Museum, and attending the Ganga Aarti.
Preparations in Full Swing
The Bihar Legislative Assembly complex is undergoing a major facelift for the occasion, with a fresh coat of paint and efforts to enhance its aesthetic appeal. The event aims to showcase Bihar’s legislative history and cultural richness, with the state pulling out all stops to ensure a memorable experience for the delegates.
Historical Significance
The All India Presiding Officers Conference was last held in Bihar in 1982, under the leadership of Congress leader Radhanandan Jha, who was then the Speaker of the Bihar Assembly. Currently, India has 22 states and three Union Territories with Legislative Assemblies, while six states have both Legislative Assemblies and Legislative Councils.
Organized by the Lok Sabha Secretariat, this conference serves as a platform for the presiding officers of legislative bodies, including the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, to deliberate on issues vital to the functioning of the country’s democratic institutions. This year’s conference is expected to underscore the importance of legislative bodies in upholding the constitutional framework.
