Nehru's Legacy: A Historical Debate on Speaker Removal in Parliament

In 1954, Jawaharlal Nehru advised Congress MPs during a heated debate over a resolution to remove Speaker G V Mavalankar, emphasizing the issue's impact on the dignity of the House over party lines. This has drawn parallels with recent opposition moves to remove Speaker Om Birla.

In a historic debate on December 18, 1954, India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, urged Congress MPs to prioritize the dignity of the Parliament over party affiliations as they deliberated on a resolution to remove Speaker G V Mavalankar. Nehru emphasized that such decisions transcend party lines and impact the House's honor.

Highlighting the significance of impartiality, Nehru clarified that while the Opposition had the constitutional right to challenge the Speaker, the appropriateness of such a motion should be thoughtfully considered. His call to action resonated as recent opposition maneuvers against Speaker Om Birla bring historical parallels to light.

This reflection on past Parliament proceedings underscores ongoing challenges in maintaining non-partisan integrity, as the Opposition today seeks a resolution for Speaker Birla's removal, touching upon a critical aspect of democratic governance.

(With inputs from agencies.)