Andhra Pradesh Assembly Adopts AI Digital Attendance

The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly has introduced an artificial intelligence-based digital attendance system for Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), aiming to enhance accountability and transparency. Speaker Ch Ayyanna Patrudu announced the reform at the commencement of the Budget Session, marking a significant administrative shift in legislative functioning.

A notification issued by Legislature Secretary General Prasanna Kumar Suryadevara confirmed that, with immediate effect, attendance would be recorded through digital means. The traditional practice of signing physical attendance registers has been discontinued.

AI-Based Facial Recognition System

Under the new mechanism, attendance will be marked using AI-powered facial recognition technology. PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras have been installed inside the Assembly to identify and monitor members accurately.

Attendance will be recorded only when a legislator occupies their designated seat within the House. The system will also track the duration of presence, ensuring that late arrivals or early departures are automatically reflected in official records.

The reform forms part of broader administrative modernisation efforts in the legislature.

Ensuring Accountability in Proceedings

The move follows concerns that some members had allegedly marked attendance without participating in proceedings. The new system seeks to prevent such practices by eliminating manual registers and linking attendance directly to physical presence inside the chamber.

By digitally monitoring participation time, the Assembly aims to reinforce legislative discipline and uphold procedural integrity.

Link to “No Work, No Pay” Proposal

The Speaker had earlier raised concerns regarding absenteeism at the 86th All India Presiding Officers’ Conference held in Lucknow. He advocated a “no work, no pay” policy for legislators who fail to attend sessions and even suggested exploring a “right to recall” mechanism in extreme cases.

The introduction of the digital attendance system is seen as a step towards operationalising stricter accountability norms within the Assembly.

Important Facts for Exams

• Andhra Pradesh Assembly introduced AI-based digital attendance for MLAs in 2026.
• Facial recognition technology and PTZ cameras are used to track presence.
• Manual attendance registers have been officially discontinued.
• The 86th All India Presiding Officers’ Conference was held in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

Political Context and Legislative Reform

The reform comes amid political discussions involving the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), though the party has not formally responded to the new system. The initiative reflects a growing emphasis on digital governance and institutional reforms aimed at strengthening legislative efficiency and public trust in democratic processes.