Om Birla Emphasises Measured Speech, Mutual Respect in Democratic Discourse

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday stressed the importance of mutual respect in a democracy, invoking the teachings of 15th-century mystic poet and saint Kabir Das to underline the need for balanced speech, equality and social cohesion.

Addressing a gathering at Kabirdham in Gola tehsil here on the 60th birth anniversary of Sant Asang Dev Maharaj, Birla said differences of opinion and perspectives were natural in a democracy, but disagreements must be handled respectfully. He said the ideals advocated by saints, particularly Kabir Das's emphasis on measured speech, offered valuable guidance for navigating differences in democratic society.

Birla praised Sant Asang Dev Maharaj for bringing positive changes to people's lives and lauded spiritual leaders for spreading Kabir's teachings and contributing to social transformation.

Highlighting the continued relevance of Kabir's philosophy, the Lok Sabha Speaker said the saint's message of equality and empathy could help bridge divisions in society.

Referring to Kabir's life and works, Birla drew parallels between the mystic poet's efforts to eradicate social evils and the need for introspection in contemporary society. He said Kabir's dohas continued to guide people towards self-reflection, truth and moral integrity instead of judging others.

The programme also featured the foundation-laying ceremony of the Kabir Smriti Bhavan. Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, former Union minister Ajay Mishra Teni, state Water Resources Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, Excise Minister Nitin Agarwal, local legislators and saints from across the country attended the event.

Addressing the gathering, Maurya sought public support for the BJP until Prime Minister Narendra Modi makes India a developed country by 2047.

He said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at the Centre and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav in Uttar Pradesh would have to wait until then.

Birla had earlier arrived at Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport in Lucknow, where he also met Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.