NEW DELHI: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla visited the Dr BR Ambedkar Museum in London on January 7, seeing it as a PROFOUND TRIBUTE to the legacy and life of Dr Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution. Praising the museum as a "living memorial," Birla highlighted its role in preserving Ambedkar’s relentless efforts for social justice, equality, and the empowerment of marginalized communities.
Birla described the exhibits as thoughtfully curated, offering a glimpse into Ambedkar's multifaceted personality. “The museum serves as an inspiration to people worldwide,” he noted.
In a social media post shared on social media Twitter (X), Om Birla expressed his admiration, stating, “I Had an opportunity to visit DrAmbedkar Museum in London. The Museum is a profound tribute to the legacy & life of the Indian Constitution's architect, which stands as a living memorial, keeping the spirit of his tireless struggle for equality, social justice, and empowerment of marginalized sections. Beyond its historical significance, the DrAmbedkar Museum serves as an inspiration to all people worldwide.”
Official UK Visit and Key Engagements
Om Birla, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, has embarked on a significant five-day official tour encompassing the United Kingdom, Scotland and Guernsey. His U.K visit, scheduled from January 7-9, is taking place by the invitation of LindsayHoyle, Speaker of the U.K House of Commons. This diplomatic engagement highlights the growing cooperation between India and U K at a parliamentary level. During his stay in London, Birla is expected to hold strategic discussions with Hoyle and Lord McFall of Alcluith, the Lord Speaker of the House of Lords, aimed at enhancing legislative collaborations between the two nations.
An official statement highlights that, as part of his engagements in the UK capital, Birla will honor Mahatma Gandhi by laying floral tributes at his iconic statue. Additionally, he is set to interact with members of the Indian diaspora, acknowledging their contributions to strengthening the cultural and economic ties between India and the United Kingdom. Strategic Meetings in Scotland and Guernsey
As his visit progresses, Om Birla will travel to Scotland, where he has a packed itinerary focused on strengthening parliamentary cooperation. He will meet Alison Johnstone MSP, the Presiding Officer of Scottish Parliament, and John Swinney MSP, the First Minister of Scotland. These discussions are expected to address common legislative challenges and explore opportunities for collaborative governance. Birla will also hold dialogues with cross-party Members of the Scottish Parliament, further emphasizing his commitment to fostering international parliamentary partnerships.
On January 10, Birla will head to Guernsey to preside over the Standing Committee meeting of the Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC). This meeting will serve as a precursor to the 28th CSPOC, which is slated to take place in India in 2026. On the sidelines of this significant event, Birla plans to meet with his counterparts from various Commonwealth nations, engaging in discussions that aim to address shared legislative priorities and promote global cooperation in parliamentary affairs.
This visit not only reinforces India’s leadership role within the Commonwealth but also highlights its dedication to strengthening ties with nations through collaborative dialogue and mutual understanding.
Pre-Visit Announcement
Ahead of his departure, Om Birla shared details of his visit in a post on X, stating, “Leaving for UK and Guernsey, at the invitation of Rt. Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker, House of Commons. Will hold bilateral meetings with him and Rt. Hon. Lord McFall of Alcluith, Lord Speaker of the House of Lords in London. Will visit Dr. B. R. Ambedkar House and Museum and pay floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. Will also interact with members of the Indian diaspora in the UK.”
Birla also highlighted his planned meetings in Scotland and Guernsey, emphasizing the importance of fostering parliamentary dialogue and cooperation across nations.