Lok Sabha clashes over motion against Birla
A fresh political confrontation unfolded in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday after Opposition parties moved a no-confidence motion against Speaker Om Birla, triggering sharp exchanges between the treasury and Opposition benches.
Opposition members said the motion was aimed at ensuring that the Speaker conducts House proceedings “fairly” and without “pressure” from the Government. The ruling NDA strongly defended Birla, asserting that he had been impartial and treated both sides equally. The debate will continue on Wednesday, with a reply expected from Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the evening. The House took up the Opposition resolution seeking Birla’s removal over alleged bias towards the ruling party, amid a heated debate over who should preside while the motion is considered.
Mohammad Jawed read out the notice to move the resolution. The motion was also backed by MPs K. Suresh and Mallu Ravi.Soon after, Asaduddin Owaisi raised a point of order questioning the decision to allow Jagdambika Pal to chair the proceedings, arguing that Pal had been appointed to the panel of chairpersons by Birla himself. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey countered the claim, citing constitutional provisions and House rules.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said Owaisi’s objection was irrelevant as Pal was competent to preside when the motion was taken up. Saugata Roy suggested that the Government move a separate motion to appoint a presiding officer specifically for the debate.
Rejecting the objections, Pal put the notice to vote and asked at least 50 MPs to stand in support. Once the required number rose, the notice was accepted and the resolution admitted for discussion.
Gaurav Gogoi opened the debate, for which 10 hours have been allotted, again raising the question of who should preside during discussion of the Speaker’s removal.
Opposition MPs, including DMK leader T. R. Baalu, praised Birla personally but criticised what they described as “harsh” action against Opposition members. Baalu said he respected the Speaker but urged corrective steps.
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh said the motion was an attempt to keep the Speaker under pressure, accusing the Opposition of frequent disruptions.
Shrikant Shinde also targeted Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of promoting an “anti-India” agenda and skipping important parliamentary debates.
