Students Stage Mock Assembly in Hyderabad on Children’s Day

• 16 Nov 2024

Students Stage Mock Assembly in Hyderabad on Children’s Day

 

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy recently suggested that the minimum age for contesting Assembly elections should be reduced from 25 to 21 years, emphasizing the importance of youth participation in the legislative process. He made the proposal while addressing students at the Children’s Mock Assembly, an event aimed at fostering civic awareness and encouraging young people to take an active interest in politics.

 

Encouraging Youth Engagement in Politics

 

During his address, Chief Minister Reddy highlighted how initiatives like the Children’s Mock Assembly play a pivotal role in promoting civic education and engagement among students. He urged the young attendees to closely observe the functioning of the Legislative Assembly, stressing how the opposition plays a vital role in holding the government accountable. He also pointed out how opposition members actively question the government, and the importance of government responses to those queries in ensuring a healthy democracy.

 

“It is the responsibility of the opposition to question and hold the government accountable,” CM Reddy told the students, reinforcing the importance of checks and balances in the democratic process. He also noted that the Speaker’s role is crucial in ensuring orderly and effective sessions of the Assembly.

 

Addressing Disruptions in Legislative Sessions

 

The Chief Minister expressed concern over the disruptions in recent legislative sessions, acknowledging that certain forces have attempted to stall the smooth functioning of the Assembly. While emphasizing the significance of maintaining decorum, he also underscored that a well-functioning opposition is essential for the health of democracy.

 

Praising the Mock Assembly and Historical Contributions

 

Reddy commended the organisers of the Children’s Mock Assembly, describing it as an inspiring initiative that offers the younger generation an opportunity to engage with the legislative process in a meaningful way. He also took a moment to reflect on the contributions of past leaders who championed the cause of youth participation in democracy.

 

He paid tribute to Jawaharlal Nehru, who advocated for advancements in education and agriculture, and Rajiv Gandhi, who made a historic move by lowering the voting age to 18, empowering youth to actively participate in the democratic process. Building on these progressive changes, CM Reddy suggested that lowering the minimum age for contesting Assembly elections would further enable young citizens to engage in governance and contribute to nation-building.

 

Symbolic Passage of the Bill

 

The idea of reducing the minimum age for Assembly election candidates was met with support from the mock assembly participants, who symbolically passed a bill in favour of the proposal. This gesture demonstrated the enthusiasm of young citizens for greater political involvement and a desire to see more youth representation in legislative bodies.

 

Conclusion

 

In closing, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy praised the students for their enthusiasm, dedication, and active participation in the mock assembly. He noted that such programs are invaluable in helping to shape a politically aware and engaged generation that can play an instrumental role in shaping the future of the nation. Through initiatives like these, Reddy expressed his belief that young people are well on their way to becoming informed, responsible citizens and future leaders of India.

 

By proposing a reduction in the age for Assembly elections, CM Reddy aims to open new avenues for youth leadership, empowering young citizens to have a greater say in the governance of their state and country.