Proceedings of Himachal Assembly Should Be Made Online: Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri on Tuesday called for broadcasting the proceedings of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly online, saying it would promote transparency and enhance public participation in democratic processes.
Arvind Sharma
Jul 1, 2025 06:50
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Dharamshala, July 1, 2025: Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri on Tuesday called for broadcasting the proceedings of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly online, saying it would promote transparency and enhance public participation in democratic processes.
Speaking in the Dharamshala Assembly, Agnihotri emphasized the need to keep pace with evolving technology and highlighted that Himachal Pradesh had already set a precedent by becoming the first digital assembly in the country. “Now is the time to take another significant step by making the Assembly proceedings fully accessible online for the people of the state and the nation,” he said.
Urging the Speaker to consider the proposal, the Deputy Chief Minister said, “This move will not only set a new benchmark in digital governance but also strengthen the democratic values of openness and accountability.”
He also reiterated the need to utilize the Dharamshala Assembly complex more effectively. Referring to an earlier proposal to use the facility as a training centre for legislators, he said the idea must be revisited and implemented. “This historic Assembly building should serve as a hub for orientation and training of MLAs,” Agnihotri added.
Commenting on concerns regarding the limited use of the Tapovan Vidhan Sabha building in Dharamshala, Agnihotri said that its utility should not be questioned merely on the basis of session frequency. Drawing parallels with institutions such as the President’s summer retreat in Shimla and Assemblies in states like Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir, which also function seasonally, he said, “Despite limited sittings, the dignity and importance of the Vidhan Sabha building remain intact.”
