Widespread acclaim for the 'Legislative Pride Journey' (Vidhayi Gaurav Yatra)—a historic gathering of former and current MLAs in Rajasthan*

Legislators hailed the kits provided to them—containing a copy of the Constitution, a booklet of Acts passed since 1952, a contact directory of past and present members, and materials from the Tourism and Cooperation Departments—as magnificent gifts*

*Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani receiving continuous congratulations*

G N Bhatt 

Jaipur. Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani is receiving widespread acclaim and continuous congratulations from across the state and the nation for the "Legislative Pride Journey" (Vidhayi Gaurav Yatra)—a historic gathering of former and current MLAs. This event marked the inauguration of the *Amrit Mahotsav* (Platinum Jubilee celebrations) commemorating 75 years of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly and was held on Wednesday in the distinguished presence of Vice President Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan and Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla. Public representatives from all political parties have described this innovative initiative—aimed at strengthening democratic traditions and elevating parliamentary dignity to new heights—as a unique and historic event.

Leader of the Opposition Shri Tikaram Jully, former Assembly Speaker Dr. C.P. Joshi, MLA Shri Harimohan Sharma, Former MLAs' Association President Shri Jeetmal Chaudhary, BJP Chief Whip Shri Jogeshwar Garg, Congress Chief Whip Shri Rafiq Khan, and numerous other former and current MLAs have conveyed their heartfelt congratulations to Speaker Vasudev Devnani for the event's success through messages and personal interactions. Former MLA Pandit Ramkishan, aged over a hundred, spoke with Speaker Devnani to offer his profound congratulations and urged that such events be organized frequently. Additionally, dignitaries holding constitutional posts, current and former public representatives, social organizations, intellectuals, and ordinary citizens have hailed this as a visionary initiative that strengthens democracy. The messages of goodwill note that under the leadership of Speaker Devnani, the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly has introduced several innovations in recent times. The 'Legislative Pride Yatra' and this gathering of former and current MLAs constitute a significant link in the ongoing effort to pass on the Legislative Assembly's glorious legacy to the new generation.

The 200 current and 495 former MLAs described the trolley bag kits provided to them—containing a copy of the Constitution, a booklet of Acts enacted since 1952, a telephone directory of members, and materials from the Tourism and Cooperation Departments (such as brochures and stoles)—as wonderful gifts. They hailed the gathering as an unprecedented event and expressed the hope that the Speaker would organize such events frequently, providing an opportunity for everyone to come together on a single platform for a cordial reunion. Reaffirming their shared commitment to democratic values, parliamentary traditions, and public service, MLAs from various political parties noted that the event allowed former legislators to reconnect after years, revived old parliamentary memories, and gave new-generation representatives a chance to learn from the experiences of senior legislators.

Many former and current MLAs remarked that this was the first time in the history of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly that such an extensive and heartwarming gathering had been organized; it transcended political differences and strengthened the sense of a democratic family. Current MLAs also viewed it as a vital opportunity to understand parliamentary traditions and draw inspiration from the experiences of senior public representatives.

The representatives expressed confidence that such events would further strengthen public trust in democratic institutions and play a crucial role in upholding parliamentary decorum and democratic values.