Lok Sabha Speaker Calls for Respect Amid Protests Outside Parliament

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla urged MPs not to protest near Parliament's gates after INDIA bloc leaders held a demonstration against 18% GST on health insurance. He emphasized the need to respect the House's dignity and maintain smooth passage for members.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday urged members of parliament (MPs) to refrain from protesting near the steps leading to the Makar Dwar of Parliament. This plea followed a demonstration by leaders of the INDIA bloc against the 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on life and health insurance premiums.

"It was the collective sentiment of the House that there will be no protest at any 'dwars' gate of Parliament House. No gate of Parliament House would be obstructed so that smooth passage of the members is ensured," Birla stated, emphasizing the importance of respecting this sentiment ahead of Zero Hour. He further advised MPs, particularly senior members, to uphold the dignity of the House.

On August 2, All India Trinamool Congress (AITMC) leader and MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay criticized the 18% GST on medical and health insurance, labeling it as 'anti-people' and detrimental to citizens. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also voiced her discontent on X, calling for the tax rollback, citing adverse effects on people's basic needs.

(With inputs from agencies.)