LUCKNOW, January 20, 2026 — Abdul Rahim Rather, the Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, addressed the 86th All India Presiding Officers Conference (AIPOC) today in Lucknow, emphasizing that fairness and responsibility are the fundamental hallmarks of legislative power.
Speaking on the theme of “Accountability of the Legislature towards the people,” Rather highlighted that the duty of lawmakers to remain responsive to citizens is rooted deeply in ancient Indian democratic traditions and religious teachings.
Drawing from the Manusmriti and the Quran, he noted that governance has historically been guided by principles of Dharma and public participation, asserting that legislators must act as servants of the people rather than masters of power.
He stressed that the Constitution entrusts these bodies with the vital tasks of framing laws, overseeing the executive branch, and providing a healthy forum for debate and dissent.
During his address, Rather characterized the Legislature as the collective conscience and custodian of the public will, arguing that true accountability is demonstrated through inclusive and well-scrutinized legislation. He warned that laws passed in haste without adequate stakeholder consultation or meaningful debate can severely erode public confidence.
Expressing concern over the rising trend of disruptions and declining decorum within legislative chambers, he remarked that while disagreement is essential to democracy, persistent disorder undermines the faith of the electorate. Rather also emphasized the importance of executive oversight through procedural tools like committee deliberations and budgetary scrutiny, which he described as essential instruments for safeguarding the public interest.
Looking toward the future, the Speaker advocated for the use of modern technology to enhance transparency and bridge the gap between the government and its citizens. He suggested that live telecasts, open committee systems, and accessible digital records are necessary steps to meet the demands of accountability in the digital age.
Accompanied by the Secretary of the J&K Legislative Assembly, Manoj Kumar Pandita, Rather concluded his speech by calling for a renewed commitment to direct engagement with the people to ensure that their issues are treated with the depth and dignity they deserve.
