Fairness, responsibility hallmarks of legislative power: Rather

Lucknow, Jan 20: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, Tuesday addressed the 86th All India Presiding Officers Conference (AIPOC) 2026 at Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
Abdul Rahim Rather spoke on the “Accountability of the Legislature towards the people” to improve mechanisms for the legislature to be more responsive and accountable to citizens.
The Speaker, while addressing the conference, mentioned verses from Manusmriti and Quran, saying that accountability of the Legislature towards the people had deep roots in ancient Indian democratic traditions, where Dharma guided governance and institutions like Sabha and Samiti ensured public participation.
Referring to hindu scriptures, he called lawmakers as the servants of dharma, not masters of power. He said that Legislatures are accountable for the welfare and protection of people.
Similarly, in Islam, it is stated that the Legislators must exercise their power with fairness, honesty and responsibility towards the people they serve, the Speaker asserted.
“The Constitution envisions a Legislature that is transparent, responsive and answerable. It entrusts the Legislatures with immense responsibility to frame laws, oversee the Executive, approve public expenditure and provide a forum for debate and dissent” he added.
The Speaker further said that in a democracy, the Legislature is not merely an institution of lawmaking; it is the collective voice, conscience and custodian of the people’s will.
Rather asserted that one of the primary ways Legislatures demonstrate accountability is through thoughtful, inclusive and well-scrutinized legislation. “A House that debates with depth and dignity sends a powerful message that people’s issues are being taken seriously and laws passed in haste, without adequate debate or stakeholder consultation, may erode public confidence” he said.
He also highlighted that public concern has grown over disruptions, disorders and declining decorum in Legislative chambers, while passionate disagreement is intrinsic to democracy and persistent disruption undermines public faith.
The Speaker stressed on another vital dimension of Legislative accountability which is effective oversight of the Executive. “Questions, calling attention motions, committee deliberations and budgetary scrutiny are not procedural formalities; they are instruments through which the Legislature safeguards public interest” he exhorted.
The Speaker said that in the digital age, accountability also demands greater transparency and direct engagement with citizens. Live telecasts, open committee systems, accessible legislative records and use of technology can bridge the gap between the Legislature and the people, he asserted.
Secretary, J&K Legislative Assembly, Manoj Kumar Pandita also accompanied the Speaker at the conference.