Opposition Launches Major Attack on Om Birla: No-Confidence Motion Discussion Begins Today
Political Tensions Rise in Parliament
Opposition Launches Major Attack on Om Birla: No-Confidence Motion Discussion Begins Today
New Delhi, March 9, 2026: The second phase of the Parliament's budget session kicks off today, with political tensions reaching a peak in the Lok Sabha. The opposition, led by the Congress party, has initiated a significant attack against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla by introducing a no-confidence motion. This motion is set for discussion in the house today, putting the Speaker's position in jeopardy.
The opposition accuses Speaker Om Birla of consistently displaying a biased attitude. They claim he has denied speaking opportunities to opposition leaders, particularly Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, and has favored decisions that benefit the ruling party. Furthermore, they allege that Birla prevented references from a yet-to-be-published book by former Army Chief General M.M. Naravane and escalated tensions by mentioning attacks on the Prime Minister in the house. In light of these accusations, the opposition submitted a notice for the no-confidence motion under Rule 94(C), which has garnered the signatures of 118 MPs, including members from Congress, SP, DMK, RJD, and now TMC.
Three members, including Congress's Gaurav Gogoi, will present the motion in the house. The opposition asserts that the Speaker's impartiality has been compromised, claiming he has become a 'supporter of the BJP.' To pass this motion, a majority of the total members in the Lok Sabha is required, which currently favors the NDA government significantly. Experts believe that the opposition is at a disadvantage in terms of numbers, as the NDA holds a strong majority, making the likelihood of the motion passing slim.
Nevertheless, Speaker Om Birla has taken a significant ethical step by deciding not to preside over the Lok Sabha proceedings until a decision is made on the no-confidence motion. The chairmanship of the house has been handed over to a panel of chairpersons. This move is considered rare in parliamentary history, as the Speaker has effectively isolated himself from the proceedings.
The BJP and NDA have dismissed this as an 'opposition political stunt.' Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the opposition's efforts would fail and that the allegations against the Speaker are baseless. Whips have been issued from both sides, indicating that a tumultuous session with intense debates is expected. The discussion could last up to 10 hours, featuring participation from Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and other opposition leaders.
Will Om Birla be removed? Currently, the chances appear slim, but this incident raises significant questions about the Speaker's impartiality. Today's debate will reveal how much pressure the opposition can exert. All eyes are on the proceedings of Parliament.