The Lok Sabha saw heated exchanges on Tuesday as it began debating an Opposition resolution seeking the removal of Speaker Om Birla. This is the first motion against a presiding officer in nearly 40 years. The ruling National Democratic Alliance holds a clear majority, so the motion is unlikely to pass. However, the debate allowed the Opposition to place its allegations of bias against the Chair on record and criticise the government over the functioning of Parliament.
Congress MP Mohammad Jawed moved the resolution in the House. He argued that the Speaker failed to maintain the neutrality expected from the post. Jawed said the Speaker must earn the confidence of members from all parties. He added that the motion questions whether that standard has been maintained.
The proceedings began with a dispute over who should preside during the debate. Birla stepped aside, citing moral grounds. The Deputy Speaker’s post remains vacant. BJP MP Jagdambika Pal from the panel of chairpersons then took the Chair. Opposition members questioned how the House chose Pal to preside over the discussion.
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Opposition Questions Om Birla’s Neutrality as Gaurav Gogoi Raises Concerns in Lok Sabha
Congress Deputy Leader Gaurav Gogoi opened the debate. He cited the Supreme Court’s Nabam Rebia judgment and said the Speaker must show independence, fairness, and impartiality. Gogoi said the Opposition had no personal issues with Birla. However, he added that the motion was necessary to protect democratic accountability. He stressed that the Speaker should act as the guardian of the House, not the government’s voice.
Gogoi also referred to earlier proceedings involving Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi. He said Gandhi faced repeated interruptions while speaking during the debate on the President’s address. Gogoi also mentioned India’s trade deal with the United States. As he continued his remarks, Pal adjourned the House for lunch until 2 pm.
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