The Congress has taken steps to introduce a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, leading to heated debates in the House regarding procedural matters and the chairing of discussions. Congress MP Mohammed Jawed officially presented the resolution for Speaker Birla’s removal, reportedly supported by 118 Opposition MPs who accuse the Speaker of biased behavior, especially following an incident involving Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi.
A discussion ensued on procedural concerns after AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi and Trinamool Congress MP Saugata Roy raised queries about the legitimacy of Jagdambika Pal continuing to oversee the session. Owaisi cited parliamentary regulations, arguing that when a motion to oust the Speaker is being considered, the Speaker should not preside. He emphasized the need for consensus on the presiding authority before the debate could proceed.
In response to objections, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey asserted that any member in the Chair could exercise Speaker-like powers and manage proceedings, a sentiment echoed by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju. Despite Congress MP K.C. Venugopal’s criticism of the government for not appointing a Deputy Speaker, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad maintained that the Chairholder had full authority over House proceedings.
After deliberations, Jagdambika Pal clarified that the Speaker’s position was not vacant, affirming the Chair’s right to continue overseeing the proceedings. The Lok Sabha agreed to dedicate 10 hours to discussing the motion to remove Speaker Om Birla, with Pal commending Birla’s handling of the situation and emphasizing the correct notification process for the motion.
