Rajasthan MLAs and Foreign Delegates Discuss Legislative Drafting

New Delhi/Jaipur: Under the 37th International Legislative Drafting Program organized by the Lok Sabha, 43 participants from 17 countries visited the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly in Jaipur on Saturday. The foreign delegates also engaged in discussions on legislative drafting with members of the Assembly.

On this occasion, Rajasthan Legislative Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani addressed the participants and emphasized the importance of legislative drafting in law-making. He stated that legislative drafts should clearly and simply reflect the aspirations of the people. He added that the process of passing bills in the Assembly is conducted with great care and transparency, ensuring the highest standards of quality in law-making.

The program was organized by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) scheme of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. Representatives from countries including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Ghana, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Zambia participated in the program.

Speaker Devnani personally interacted with all 43 participants and also took a group photograph with them at the entrance of the Assembly.

Simple Language is the Essence of Justice

Devnani explained that the process of introducing a bill goes through three main stages. First, the bill is presented in the House. In the second stage, it undergoes detailed discussions and scrutiny, often with the help of special committees. Finally, the House votes on the bill. He stressed that the entire process ensures that laws are strong, easy to understand, and truly serve public interest. According to him, clarity and simplicity in language are the essence of justice.

Assembly: The True Temple of Democracy

He described the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly as a true temple of democracy, where laws ensuring inclusive development and social security are passed. Celebrating its 75th anniversary, he noted that from the early days of state formation to the era of digital governance, the Assembly has transformed the aspirations of millions into laws. The 200-member Assembly reflects the will of the people.

India Moving Toward Amrit Kaal

Devnani highlighted that as India celebrates 75 years of independence, it is progressing toward the Amrit Kaal—a significant 25-year journey leading up to the centenary of independence in 2047. He described this as a time for introspection and setting ambitious goals for the future.

Jaipur’s “Pink Assembly” as a National Model

He remarked that the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, located in the Pink City of Jaipur, has become a model for the country. The Assembly has digitized all legislative records, enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in governance. The building itself is an elegant blend of traditional Rajasthani architecture and modern functionality.

Museum as a Bridge to the Public

The Speaker also highlighted the Assembly’s modern digital museum, calling it an important bridge connecting the public—especially youth—with the legislative process. It offers insights into the state’s democratic journey and brings law-making closer to the people.

Spirit of “Padharo Mhare Desh”

Devnani encouraged foreign participants to interact with experienced legislators, stating that such programs provide practical knowledge beyond textbooks. He noted that law-making is a global language, and sharing experiences helps strengthen democracy worldwide. He added that visitors would better understand Rajasthan’s welcoming spirit—“Padharo Mhare Desh”—through their visit.

The event was attended by Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully, Chief Whip Jogeshwar Garg, Opposition Chief Whip Rafiq Khan, MLAs Dr. Gopal Sharma, Chandrabhan Singh Akya, Kailash Verma, Gurveer Singh, and Dr. Shikha Meel Barala, among others. Earlier, Rajasthan Assembly Principal Secretary Bharat Bhushan Sharma, PRIDE Director Rajkumar, and Program Director K.M. Chaturvedi provided details about the training program. Phurpa Dema, a legislative officer from Bhutan’s National Assembly Secretariat, delivered the vote of thanks.

Interactive Session with Delegates

Participants from Tanzania, Kenya, and Malaysia asked questions on topics such as Union-State relations, women’s reservation, anti-defection law, and private member bills. Chief Whip Jogeshwar Garg and Opposition Chief Whip Rafiq Khan responded in detail, explaining practical aspects of legislative processes. The interactive session lasted about an hour and covered various democratic themes.

Museum Impresses Foreign Delegates

The participants also visited the Assembly’s museum and political archives. They highly appreciated the museum, describing it as informative and engaging. They noted that such institutions are effective tools for understanding democratic traditions and suggested that similar museums should exist in other countries.