Opposition Challenges Speaker Over Parliamentary Practices

A delegation from opposition parties met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to address the issue of denying Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi the opportunity to speak. The meeting raised concerns over the politicization of parliamentary procedures and unfilled deputy speaker post, stressing the need for adherence to democratic norms.

A delegation representing various opposition parties confronted Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla over the exclusion of Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi from speaking in the House. The cross-party group, comprising members from Congress and allied parties, voiced their displeasure during a Thursday meeting, highlighting a series of procedural grievances.

The opposition leaders claimed routine contravention of parliamentary traditions, particularly the neglect of Rule 349, mandating equal speaking opportunities. They emphasized the constitutional significance of the LoP's role, condemning the government's alleged politicization and the lack of a deputy speaker since 2019 as undermining the House's integrity.

Key concerns included the non-binding nature of the business advisory committee's decisions, unilateral government actions, and inadequate deliberation on private bills, among others. The opposition pressed for immediate remedial actions to preserve parliamentary fairness and transparency, underscoring the deteriorating standards in recent sessions.

(With inputs from agencies.)