Speaker Om Birla Advised PM Modi to Avoid Lok Sabha Session Over Security Fears
In a dramatic development, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla revealed on Thursday that he had urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to attend the House on Wednesday to deliver the customary reply to the Motion of Thanks debate. This advice was based on what Birla described as "credible information" that several members from the Congress party might attempt something "apratyashit (unforeseen)" near the Prime Minister's seat.
Unprecedented Disorder in Parliament
Sources within the Lok Sabha Secretariat clarified that Birla's statement must be understood against the backdrop of grave and unprecedented disorder that unfolded in the House that day. From the very start of the proceedings, the atmosphere deteriorated sharply, raising serious concerns about safety, decorum, and the dignity of parliamentary functioning.
According to officials, protesting MPs entered the Well of the House early on, climbed onto tables, tore official papers, and hurled them towards the Chair. These actions signified a complete breakdown of discipline, with several women MPs moving aggressively towards the Prime Minister's seat and advancing deep into the Treasury Benches.
Opposition Protests and Threats
The Opposition, led by Congress, strongly protested Birla's remarks, asserting that there was no imminent threat to the Prime Minister. In response, Opposition leaders discussed the possibility of moving a no-confidence resolution against the Speaker unless their concerns were addressed.
Officials further claimed that after the House was adjourned, Opposition MPs walked into the Speaker's Chamber, using threatening remarks. In light of these events, the Speaker had "genuine and well-founded concerns" regarding the Prime Minister's safety, and his advice was guided solely by the need to ensure smooth parliamentary business and safeguard the institution's dignity.
Historical Context and Reactions
Congress MP K C Venugopal recalled a past incident where former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was not allowed to reply to the Motion of Thanks but tabled his speech while NDA MPs were protesting. The officials dismissed the Opposition's claims as "entirely baseless", emphasizing that the Speaker's actions were necessary to prevent further escalation in the already chaotic environment.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions in India's parliamentary proceedings, with both sides accusing each other of undermining democratic norms and safety protocols.
