Speaker seeks ‘no work, no pay’ rule, recall option for MLAs
Andhra Pradesh Assembly Speaker Chintakayala Ayyanna Patrudu on Monday called for major reforms to improve legislative accountability, proposing a “no work, no pay” policy for legislators and the introduction of a Right to Recall.
Addressing the 77th Republic Day celebrations at the State Assembly premises, he said legislatures must function as the true voice of the people and cannot afford disruptions, absenteeism or unproductive sittings. Public faith in democracy, he noted, depends on how responsibly elected representatives perform in the House.
Stressing that legislatures are the heartbeat of democracy, the Speaker said debates and lawmaking should reflect people’s concerns, not partisan confrontation. Frequent adjournments and poor participation weaken the system and delay decisions on key public issues, he said, adding that a “no work, no pay” rule would enforce discipline and better use of House time.
He proposed a minimum of 60 sitting days a year to ensure proper scrutiny of bills, discussion on welfare measures and review of policies. Meaningful sittings, he said, would lead to stronger laws and more transparent governance.
Urging members to uphold the dignity of the House, Ayyanna Patrudu called for collective focus on the development of Amaravati and the completion of the Polavaram irrigation project, describing them as vital to the state’s economic future.
He also reminded government employees that the Constitution must guide public administration and that welfare schemes should be delivered with integrity to reach the intended beneficiaries.
Legislative Council Chairman Koyye Moshenu Raju described the Constitution as the supreme framework safeguarding liberty, equality and justice. Paying tribute to Dr B.R. Ambedkar, he urged citizens to exercise their rights responsibly and help maintain social harmony.
The event was attended by legislators, officials and staff, who reaffirmed their commitment to democratic values and constitutional governance.