AP Speaker highlights India's democratic strength in barbados

Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker C. Ayyanna Patrudu has highlighted the robustness of India’s democratic institutions, the supremacy of the Constitution, and the state’s commitment to people-centric governance while addressing the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Speaking at a workshop on “Strengthening Our Institutions to Support Democracy” held on Wednesday, Patrudu stressed that India’s democratic framework rests firmly on the collective will of the people and the rule of law. “The Indian Parliament and State Legislatures have shaped the nation’s destiny over the past 75 years, ensuring transparency, accountability, and peaceful transitions of power through public mandate,” he said, according to a press release issued here on Thursday.

Recalling India’s decision to adopt universal adult franchise in its very first general elections, Patrudu noted that over 97 crore people participated in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, demonstrating enduring faith in democratic institutions. He highlighted the country’s history of smooth government transitions, emphasizing that India’s democracy remains resilient due to strong institutional frameworks and adherence to constitutional values.

The Speaker pointed out that India was among the first countries to mandate public declaration of assets by lawmakers, a practice later emulated by other key institutions. Referring to the more than 100 constitutional amendments enacted over 75 years, he said, “The more dynamic a Constitution, the more vibrant the democracy becomes.”

Emphasizing the separation of powers, Patrudu stated that each institution in India operates under the guiding principle that “the Constitution is supreme and the people are the real masters.” Quoting former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao, he said, “Society is the temple and people are gods,” describing it as the essence of Indian democracy. He also invoked Mahatma Gandhi, noting that democracy flourishes only when power is shared by all, urging Commonwealth nations to prioritize people-centric governance.

The 68th CPC, held from October 7 to 10 in Barbados, brings together delegates from approximately 50–55 Commonwealth countries, including Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Pacific, to share best practices, strengthen institutions, and promote transparent governance. Delegates include Speakers, Members of Parliament, and senior legislative officials from both national and state assemblies.

Representing Andhra Pradesh at the conference are Speaker C. Ayyanna Patrudu and Secretary General Prasanna Kumar Suryadevara, continuing the state’s participation in CPCs over the past decade. Historically, Andhra Pradesh has sent delegations to around 8–10 CPCs, with the focus largely on institutional learning, networking, and showcasing democratic practices. The state has leveraged previous participation to improve legislative procedures, committee functioning, question-hour practices, and citizen-centric initiatives, although tangible policy outcomes have mostly been indirect and long-term.

Participation in such global forums provides Andhra Pradesh an opportunity to highlight its democratic achievements, exchange legislative best practices with international peers, and strengthen institutional credibility. Funding for the delegation, including travel, accommodation, and allowances, is provided by the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly, reflecting the state’s investment in maintaining active engagement with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA).

Through its presence at the CPC, Andhra Pradesh not only represents India on an international platform but also reinforces its commitment to constitutional governance, transparency, and citizen-focused policies, demonstrating how state-level legislatures can actively contribute to strengthening democracy at both national and global levels.