AP Assembly Speaker Underscores India's Democratic Strength in Barbados Conference

India stands as a shining example of a robust and inclusive democracy where the people are truly sovereign, declared Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker Chintakayala Ayyanna Patrudu. He was addressing the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Bridgetown, Barbados, on Thursday, speaking on the theme ‘Parliamentary Scrutiny for Improved Democracy’.

Highlighting India’s democratic journey, Speaker Patrudu said that the success of the world’s largest democracy for over 75 years as a republic is rooted in the pivotal role of Parliament and State Legislatures. “Our Constitution, drawn up with the spirit of ‘government of the people, by the people, and for the people,’ forms the foundation of India’s democracy,” he remarked.

Explaining the strength of India’s electoral process, the Speaker noted that around 970 million voters exercised their franchise in the 18th Lok Sabha elections. Over the course of 18 general elections, Indian citizens have peacefully changed governments eight times. “This reflects the maturity of Indian voters and the deep trust they repose in democratic institutions,” he stated.

Ayyanna Patrudu further pointed out that the Indian Constitution has evolved dynamically with over a hundred amendments, ensuring responsiveness to contemporary aspirations. Quoting legendary leaders, he recalled the words of former Chief Minister Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao “People are the gods, and society is the temple” and echoed Mahatma Gandhi’s guiding principles on democracy.

The Speaker also suggested that public representatives should mandatorily disclose their assets and liabilities in the spirit of transparency and accountability. Delegates and Speakers from various Commonwealth nations attended the conference, which focused on strengthening democratic institutions across member countries.