Somnath emphasises importance of training in legislative drafting

New Delhi, Feb 21 (UNI) Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee today emphasised the importance of legislative drafting and having a regular legislature secretariat for the smooth and orderly conduct of the proceedings of the House.

Interacting with parliamentary officials from 22 countries attending the six-week-long 'International Training Programme in Legislative Drafting', organised by the Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training, he stressed the importance of good drafting of legislation and said that laws have ''not only to be clear and precise but they should also deal with the people's problems.'' ''Unless the spirit behind the legislation is understood in proper perspective, they cannot be drafted properly. Since legislations are subject to judicial scrutiny in a democracy, those who draft them should have sufficient knowledge of the Constitution and judicial precedents,'' he said, stressing the role of training for making legislations and laws people-friendly and capable of withstanding judicial scrutiny.

Emphasising the imperative of consolidation of democracy around the world, Mr Chatterjee said that there should be enhanced cooperation among those who value democratic principles and the worth of inclusive governance. Referring to the role of democracy and people's representatives in fulfilling the aspirations of the people, he urged all stakeholders in democracy to be sensitive to the problems of the people and use the forum of Parliament and its Committees in a purposive manner.

Making a mention of various initiatives taken by the Indian Parliament, he referred to the Lok Sabha Television, Parliamentary Forums and Parliament Museum as some endeavours aimed at bringing the institution of Parliament closer to the people.

UNI BKS VD AS1607