Vidhayak Samvaad

Background

CUTS initiated a forum at the state level called Vidhayak Samvaad in Rajasthan, which would not only discuss the economic issues, but also strive to coordinate between the Centre and State. It addresses the basic issues and plays a key role in implementing related policies and programmes aimed towards people’s welfare based on thought-provoking discussions at a common platform. Through Vidhayak Samvaad CUTS intends to engage MLAs to discuss economic issues relevant to the state.

Sumitra Singh, the Speaker of Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, has been at the forefront in the formation of Vidhayak Samvaad since the very beginning. She wrote: “CUTS’ proposal cutting across party lines is indeed praiseworthy. I believe that useful information on important issues will be available with the help of CUTS. MLAs can use this information, which they could get at the forum, in the Assembly in an effective manner”.

Objectives

The main objectives of the Vidhayak Samvaad are to:

  • discuss basic and structured policy issues related to the development of the public and the state, such as road reconstruction and safety, electricity, water, population control etc. in addition to economic issues;
  • send suggestions and recommendations of the forum to the Central and State Government and advocacy thereof; and
  • ensure the participation of common people on issues of public interest.

Forum Creation

It all started with CUTS’ long deliberations with subject experts, known political leaders and scientists. In the deliberation period, CUTS received varied opinions and reactions on the issue on which much thought was given before coming to a concrete conclusion. There were individual level discussions with five important MLAs of five important political parties of the State, viz. C P Joshi, Nathu Singh Gurjar, Amra Ram, Jeetmal Khant and Subhash Chandra Sharma. All of them praised CUTS’ unique thinking as a purposeful step. It was followed by the preparation of a letter signed by the five MLAs addressed and dispatched to all the MLAs of the state, asking them to become members of the forum. In response, several MLAs sent their consent, while others welcomed the formation of such a forum with open arms.

Reports