In a rare and politically charged move, opposition parties belonging to the INDIA bloc have tabled a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The notice, backed by 114 Members of Parliament, accuses the Speaker of functioning in a partisan manner and undermining parliamentary conventions, particularly during recent proceedings in the Lower House.
Oppn Submits No-Confidence Against Om Birla
According to opposition leaders, the motion reflects growing frustration over what they describe as repeated instances of selective conduct that have denied them a fair opportunity to raise issues on the floor of the House.
A key trigger for the motion was the Speaker’s handling of the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address. The opposition claims that Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi was not allowed to speak, despite repeated requests, while members from the ruling side were given ample time.
Congress Confirms Formal Submission
Congress sources confirmed that the party has formally moved the no-confidence motion and that the signed notice has been submitted to the Lok Sabha Secretary-General. The party said the move was taken after internal consultations within the INDIA bloc, indicating a coordinated opposition strategy rather than an isolated protest.
Speaker Refers Oppn’s No-Confidence Motion For Examination
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has directed the Secretary-General of the House to review the notice submitted by opposition MPs seeking his removal and to take action in accordance with parliamentary rules, sources in the Lok Sabha Secretariat said.
The INDIA bloc parties had formally handed over the no-confidence motion against the Speaker to the Secretary-General earlier in the day. Secretariat officials confirmed that the notice will be scrutinized and processed as per established procedures.
Shashi Tharoor Reacts
Commenting on the development, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said he was focused on preparing for his scheduled budget speech. “All I can say is I’m prepared for the budget speech, which is supposed to happen at 2. Whatever the party has decided to do, I stand by it. As a member of the party, I support the decision,” Tharoor remarked.