Opposition Coalition Threatens No-Confidence Motion Against Lok Sabha Speaker
In a significant escalation of parliamentary tensions, the Opposition INDIA alliance is actively preparing to move a formal no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. Senior Congress leader K C Venugopal strongly hinted at imminent parliamentary action on Monday, leveling serious allegations that Opposition voices are being systematically stifled and marginalized within the House of the People.
Allegations of Parliamentary Bias and Suppression
Speaking to journalists within the Parliament complex, Venugopal delivered a scathing critique of the current Lok Sabha's functioning. He emphasized that according to established parliamentary rules and traditions, the Leader of the Opposition holds the constitutional position of a "shadow Prime Minister." However, he asserted that this respected role is being undermined, with the LoP consistently denied opportunities to speak on crucial national issues.
"The government can say anything and attack anyone in this House, but the Leader of Opposition is not being allowed to speak," Venugopal declared, highlighting what he described as a one-sided parliamentary environment. He specifically referenced instances where Rahul Gandhi, as Leader of the Opposition, was reportedly prevented from raising concerns about the proposed comprehensive trade agreement with the United States.
Direct Criticism of Speaker Om Birla's Conduct
The Congress MP from Kerala launched a direct attack on Speaker Om Birla's impartiality, accusing him of demonstrating clear bias against Opposition members. "The Speaker is himself making allegations against Congress women MPs, but there is no space for the opposition in this House at all," Venugopal stated, suggesting an unprecedented hostile attitude toward parliamentary dissent.
He further elaborated that the government appears intent on preserving Parliament exclusively for itself, restricting democratic debate. Referring to the US-India trade deal discussions, Venugopal noted, "The Leader of Opposition wanted to mention critical points about this shocking agreement to the Speaker, but that fundamental right was also denied." These remarks align with broader Opposition claims that Rahul Gandhi was repeatedly blocked from speaking during the recent discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address.
Unified Opposition Stand and Deliberations
Demonstrating collective resolve, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav confirmed that all Opposition parties would stand united behind the INDIA alliance leadership's decision regarding the proposed no-confidence motion. "Whatever decision the senior leaders of the INDIA alliance take, all Opposition parties will firmly stick to it," she told reporters, signaling coordinated strategy.
According to informed parliamentary sources, detailed deliberations on the no-confidence motion were conducted earlier on Monday during a high-level meeting. This crucial meeting was chaired by Congress president and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, underscoring the seriousness of the political move. The Opposition's threat represents a dramatic challenge to the Speaker's authority and reflects deepening institutional tensions within India's parliamentary democracy.
