A motion to remove Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was brought before Parliament on Tuesday. Congress MP Dr Mohammad Jawed initiated the resolution, alleging the Speaker had not maintained impartiality required to gain the confidence of all sections of the House. During the debate, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra stated Birla was “no longer fit to conduct the affairs of the House,” and asked him to “go, in the name of God.”
The resolution accuses the Speaker of disallowing the Leader of the Opposition and other Opposition leaders from speaking, making allegations against women MPs from the Opposition, and suspending Opposition members for an entire session for raising issues of public concern. It also alleges the Speaker did not rebuke ruling party members for making objectionable remarks against former Prime Ministers.
Alongside the motion against the Speaker, Question Hour began in the Rajya Sabha, where Union Health Minister JP Nadda responded to questions regarding Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) and their role in the public health system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the motion against the Speaker?
Congress MP Dr Mohammad Jawed moved the resolution alleging the Speaker failed to maintain impartiality and command the confidence of all sections of the House.
What specific accusations were made against the Speaker?
The Speaker was accused of disallowing opposition leaders from speaking, making allegations against women MPs from the Opposition, suspending Opposition members, and failing to rebuke ruling party members for objectionable remarks.
What other business was conducted in Parliament on Tuesday?
Committee reports were tabled, and Question Hour took place in the Rajya Sabha, with Union Health Minister JP Nadda responding to questions about ASHA workers.
Given these developments, what impact might this no-confidence motion have on the functioning of the Lok Sabha moving forward?