Speaker of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly Satish Mahana on Monday said that a conscious effort is being made to allow more legislators to participate meaningfully in discussions on bills presented in the House, marking a positive shift in the functioning of the Assembly.

Speaking to reporters after the conclusion of the winter session of the state Assembly, Mahana said that an increasing number of members were given the opportunity to express their views on proposed legislation and amendments. He noted that this change has helped improve perceptions about the legislature and has encouraged more informed and constructive debate.

“In this session, most members got the chance to speak on amendments to bills. Members were also expected to stay focused on the subject matter and avoid unnecessary repetition,” Mahana said. To ensure meaningful participation, all MLAs were encouraged to study the bills thoroughly before attending the House.

The Speaker said many MLAs appreciated the initiative, stating that for the first time they felt they were able to engage in serious discussions on legislation. “Earlier, many members did not have complete information about the bills. Now, they are better prepared and more confident while participating in debates,” he added.

Mahana said that in upcoming sessions, this approach will be strengthened further. During proposed “interaction programmes,” MLAs will be advised to come to the House only after carefully reading and understanding the bills listed for discussion. He made it clear that merely raising a hand would no longer guarantee an opportunity to speak.

“In future sessions, members may be asked at any time about the basic spirit and key provisions of the bill under discussion,” the Speaker said, adding that the objective is to deepen understanding and democratise the legislative process. He stressed that informed participation would enhance the quality of debates and improve law-making.

Highlighting the conduct of the recently concluded winter session, Mahana said the House proceedings were not adjourned even once, which he described as a significant achievement. He also pointed out that a special discussion was held on Vande Mataram, with participation from a large number of MLAs.

“Most importantly, for the first time since Independence, the complete Vande Mataram song was sung unanimously in the House. This will remain a memorable and historic moment in the history of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly,” the Speaker said.

Mahana also announced that Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will inaugurate the All India Presiding Officers’ Conference in Lucknow on January 19. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and several other dignitaries are expected to be present at the inaugural event.

He said discussions on contemporary parliamentary and legislative issues will be held during the conference on January 20 and 21, and the event will conclude with an address by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel. On January 22, delegates from across the country will visit Ayodhya.

Reflecting on his 35 years of parliamentary experience, Mahana said it was satisfying to witness the growing emphasis on positive and constructive aspects of legislative functioning. He credited both legislators and the media for helping change public perception.

“Earlier, there were more negative views about the legislature. Today, a positive change is clearly visible,” he said. He also noted that an increasing number of people from across the state are visiting the Assembly, which is helping citizens better understand its functioning and strengthening public awareness of democratic institutions.

According to Mahana, rising public visits to the Assembly indicate growing trust in the legislature and greater interest among people in the democratic process.