As Parliament resumed for the second phase of the Budget Session, Congress MPs escalated their criticism of Speaker Om Birla, supporting the Opposition’s no-confidence motion. Congress MP Mallu Ravi highlighted that the motion stemmed from the repeated obstruction of Opposition members during proceedings. Ravi emphasized the importance of allowing all voices to be heard in parliamentary debates.
Another Congress leader, Sukhdeo Bhagat, criticized the Speaker’s conduct, stressing the need for neutrality and adherence to constitutional principles in the Chair’s role. Bhagat expressed concerns over potential bias favoring the ruling government and the stifling of opposition voices, including instances like Rahul Gandhi’s microphone being turned off during sessions.
The Opposition had formally submitted a no-confidence motion against Birla on February 10, with 118 Members of Parliament endorsing the proposal. The motion was triggered by Birla’s refusal to permit the Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, to reference or discuss former Indian Army chief M. M. Naravane’s unpublished memoir during a parliamentary debate. The upcoming phase of the Budget Session is anticipated to witness heated political debates between the government and the Opposition.
In addition to the parliamentary conduct dispute, discussions in the House are expected to center on various national and international issues, such as the West Asia crisis and India–US trade relations. The session, scheduled until April 2, will prioritize significant legislative matters, including the passage of the Finance Bill, 2026, and deliberations on the Demands for Grants for different ministries crucial for the government’s financial plans for the upcoming year.
