Bengal Assembly announces award for best MLA
Kolkata, July 23
West Bengal Assembly Speaker Rathindra Bose on Thursday announced the "Best Performing Legislator of the Year" award, which will be given annually based on the performance of legislators from different parties in their constituencies as well as on the floor of the House.
"An agency will prepare a report on the performance of the 294 legislators. Based on its report, one MLA will be awarded every year," Speaker Bose said on the floor of the House on the fourth day of the extended budget session of the West Bengal Assembly.
It is learnt that the criteria for the award will include attendance at the House and participation in discussions, raising crucial issues relating to constituencies or matters of larger interest.
The second criterion will be the legislator's performance in overall development and welfare of the people residing in the constituency represented. An assembly‑appointed agency will prepare the performance report of the 294 members, based on which the best performing MLA will be judged.
Political observers feel the Speaker's decision is unique and unprecedented, and will increase enthusiasm among MLAs, especially first‑time legislators, to play an active role.
After announcing the decision, Speaker Bose emphasised that first‑time MLAs should learn from experienced members how to use the Legislative Assembly platform effectively for the development of their constituencies and the state.
On Thursday, Speaker Bose also reminded MLAs that they should be present on the floor of the House not just to speak when their turn comes but also to listen to others, including opposition members.
"Every member giving a speech on the floor of the House wants others to listen. There are many members whose speeches are enlightening. Much can be learnt from them. But the interest in learning new things seems to be waning. Are we really fulfilling our responsibilities properly?" Speaker Bose asked.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is a brilliant move by Speaker Bose. But I wonder how they'll measure "development of the constituency" — that's a tricky metric. Roads, hospitals, schools? What about MLAs who actually use their fund properly? Also, attending the House is fine, but some of the best work happens outside the assembly, in the ground. Hope the criteria is holistic.
As a Bengali, I say well done! But the Speaker's question about "Are we really fulfilling our responsibilities properly?" — that applies to every political party in Bengal. We need more than just an award. We need a system where MLAs can be recalled if they don't perform. That's real democracy. But this is a good start, no doubt.
Ek number initiative hai! 👏 But I'm skeptical about who will choose the agency. If it's government-appointed, there's a risk of bias. The award should be based on objective data — attendance records, number of questions asked, bills introduced, constituency visits. Not some subjective report. Transparency is key here.
I love that the Speaker emphasized listening to others, especially opposition members. In Bengal's heated politics, that's a much-needed reminder. The award might actually encourage MLAs to be more respectful and constructive. Imagine — an MLA from Trinamool and an MLA from BJP actually debating issues instead of shouting at each other! That would be a real award-worthy performance.
Bengal has always been a land of intellectuals and reformers. This award is in that tradition. But one concern: will first-time MLAs from rural areas with less
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.