By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: IN a special session titled “Speaker and the Public” held at the historic building of the Punjab Assembly, Speaker Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan engaged in dialogue with students and teachers from private and public educational institutions, as well as social security workers, and gave detailed answers to their questions.
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In his address, the Speaker stated that societies are not built on the edge of a sword but on words, reason, and dialogue. He said that research is essential before forming an opinion on any matter, and in the present era, opportunities for research have expanded significantly due to artificial intelligence (AI) and other modern technologies. He advised the younger generation to form opinions based on verified information rather than unverified narratives circulating on social media.
While speaking about the justice system, the Speaker described it as a fundamental pillar of the State. He said that millions of cases are pending in courts, resulting in delays in the delivery of justice to litigants. He emphasized that it is the responsibility of elected representatives to provide an effective working environment for the judiciary and to introduce necessary reforms through legislation.
Referring to the new system of public petitions introduced in the Punjab Assembly, he informed that citizens will be able to submit their petitions to the Assembly with proper signatures. These petitions will be forwarded to the relevant departments through standing committees to ensure resolution of public issues.
Regarding student unions, the Speaker stated that he supports the restoration of student unions, as they can serve as an effective platform for dialogue, tolerance, and leadership development within educational institutions. He further informed that legislation has been enacted under which every university will be required to provide scholarships to ten percent of its students.
Expressing concern over the increasing incidents of suicide in educational institutions, Speaker Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan announced that a parliamentary committee is being formed. The committee will call Vice Chancellors and ensure necessary measures, including psychological counseling, to protect students from mental stress and related challenges.
In conclusion, Speaker Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan stated that the primary responsibility of public representatives is to resolve the issues of their constituencies, and the House should be a center of serious dialogue and constructive legislation rather than a place of disorder.
