Public representatives should make cities not only “smart” but also capable, inclusive and sustainable: Dr Krishan Lal Midha

Haryana Vidhan Sabha Deputy Speaker Dr. Krishan Lal Midha said that representatives of urban local bodies should strive to make their cities not just “smart,” but also capable, inclusive, and sustainable so that the vision of a ‘Developed India’ becomes not just a goal but a ground reality. He was addressing representatives of Urban Local Bodies during the closing ceremony of the National Conference in Manesar, Gurugram today.

The Deputy Speaker said that Haryana has already set several successful examples in the areas of transparency, e-governance, and citizen participation within the urban local body sector. Whether in Municipal Corporations like Gurugram and Faridabad or in Municipal Councils across other districts, development plans have consistently been created with citizens at the core. 

He further remarked that the in-depth discussions held during the conference on the theme “Strengthening Constitutional Democracy and the Role of Urban Local Bodies in Nation Building” were not only timely but also highly relevant in advancing the vision of India as a developed nation.

He said that the empowerment of urban local bodies must be evident on the ground—not merely confined to policy documents. An ideal municipal body, he said, is one where every citizen feels confident that their voice is heard, and their concerns don’t remain stuck in files but move toward practical solutions.

He added that only when all states strengthen their municipal institutions—making them responsive, accountable, and citizen-centric—can we truly realize the full spirit of constitutional democracy. He underlined that a model urban local body is not just an administrative structure, but a vibrant, responsible, and participatory system that functions transparently and inclusively, aligned with the real needs of its citizens.

He reiterated the vision of an ideal urban local body, one where every decision is made with active citizen participation, and where public voices are translated into effective policies through Mohalla Sabhas and Ward Committees. Administrative processes, he said, must be streamlined through the use of digital technologies; grievances should be addressed promptly; and essential services whether related to water, sanitation, or health must be accessible, efficient, and of high quality, ensuring that the public receives well-organized and reliable urban amenities.

Dr. Midha stated that an ideal municipal body is one that is environmentally conscious, driven by innovation, and committed to empowering women. He emphasized that self-employment schemes for youth, along with safe and accessible infrastructure such as roads, lighting, parks, and public transport, can be effectively implemented through smart initiatives. 

A truly excellent model of urban governance, he said, is a body that is financially self-reliant, resilient to disasters, and actively working to transform the vision of ‘Developed India 2047’ into a practical reality. He emphasized the need to build a system where urban local bodies are not seen merely as administrative units, but as shared centers of public sentiment where councillors serve not just as elected representatives, but as true guardians of their communities.

Dr. Midha expressed pride that the Haryana Vidhan Sabha had the honour of hosting this historic event. He extended his gratitude to the Lok Sabha Secretariat, the Haryana Vidhan Sabha Secretariat, and the Gurugram Administration for the successful organization of the two-day national conference.