Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi expressed procedural and constitutional concerns in the Lok Sabha while discussing a no-confidence motion against Speaker Om Birla. Gogoi highlighted parliamentary rules, stating that the Speaker should not preside over proceedings when his removal is being considered. He questioned the appointment of Jagdambika Pal to chair the House during this crucial debate, emphasizing the lack of official explanation for this decision.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah intervened, defending the Speaker’s authority to appoint chairpersons even during debates on his removal. Shah clarified that while the Speaker cannot personally preside during such discussions, the office does not become vacant. Gogoi reiterated his stance that allowing a panel member appointed by the Speaker to preside during a motion against the Speaker violates the Constitution. He also pointed out the absence of a Deputy Speaker in the current government, despite past precedents.
Gogoi further criticized the functioning of the House, alleging biased microphone usage favoring the Treasury Benches over the Opposition. He claimed that Opposition members, including Rahul Gandhi, were being denied opportunities to speak on crucial matters. Pal objected to these claims, labeling them as slanderous, but Gogoi maintained that these issues were directly linked to the ongoing debate.
