Parliament's anniversary, a moment for introspection: Speaker Meira Kumar

NEW DELHI: Terming the 60th anniversary of Parliament's first session as a milestone, Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar today said it was an occasion for members to introspect and think about the future.

"This is a moment for introspection and analyse the challenges ahead," Kumar said making an observation before a discussion on 60 years of Indian Parliament at a special sitting.

Parliament has adapted to changing times, Kumar said adding that it has enacted 3,400 progressive laws and more than 500 legislations to empower the deprived and for overall development.

She noted that three joint sittings of Parliament were called for considering the Dowry Prohibition Bill, Banking Services Commission (Repeal) Bill and Prevention of Terrorism Bill.

The Speaker said people deserved the real credit for success of democracy as it is their enthusiastic participation in elections that has kept the institution of Parliament alive. "The belief of the people of India in democratic values is the foundation of our Parliamentary system," she said.