TMC MPs Set to Support No-Confidence Motion Against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

After weeks of hesitation, members of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) have decided to back the no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. Sources indicate that TMC MPs in both houses will support the motion when it is discussed. At least two TMC representatives confirmed that West Bengal Chief Minister and party leader Mamata Banerjee has instructed them to endorse the proposal. On February 10, the opposition submitted a notice for the no-confidence motion, backed by signatures from 118 MPs, following Birla's refusal to allow opposition leader Rahul Gandhi to quote from the unpublished memoir of former Army Chief General M M Naravane.

A TMC leader stated, “We have always been in favor of the no-confidence motion. We did not want to rush it, which is why we suggested presenting it three days later during the final part of the first phase of the budget session.” The leader assured that nearly all TMC MPs, except for those unwell, would be present in the Lok Sabha when the notice is considered on Monday. TMC leaders are also coordinating with other members of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (the 'India' coalition) regarding this issue. The Lok Sabha has scheduled the opposition's notice for the motion to remove Om Birla from the chair for discussion on Monday, with only this proposal on the agenda.

When the Speaker calls for a vote on Monday, if 50 members stand in support of the motion, it will be deemed accepted, leading to a discussion and subsequent voting. If fewer than 50 members support the notice, the motion will not proceed. Both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the main opposition party, Congress, have issued whips to ensure their members are present during the discussions. Given the current numbers, the likelihood of the motion being rejected is high. According to the Constitution, the Lok Sabha Speaker (in this case, Birla) can be present in the house, defend himself, and vote on the motion, but he cannot preside over the proceedings during the discussion. The proposed motion raises concerns about Birla's conduct, including his refusal to allow the opposition leader and other opposition figures to speak, as well as unfounded allegations against female opposition MPs. It also highlights that opposition MPs were suspended for raising public issues, while members of the ruling party faced no repercussions for making offensive remarks against former Prime Ministers. The motion accuses Birla of failing to maintain the impartiality necessary to earn the trust of all sections of the house.