Om Birla Re-elected Lok Sabha Speaker: A Rare Moment of Unity Between Modi and Rahul Gandhi
- HIMACHALNATIONPOLITICS
- June 26, 2024
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Om Birla Re-elected Lok Sabha Speaker: A Rare Moment of Unity Between Modi and Rahul Gandhi
National Democratic Alliance nominee Om Birla was re-elected as the Lok Sabha Speaker on Wednesday after a motion moved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was adopted through voice votes. The opposition, which had proposed Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh as its candidate, did not press for votes to the motion. Modi, alongside Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, went to Birla’s seat in the front row of the treasury benches to escort him to the chair. Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi also joined them, greeting Birla and shaking hands with the prime minister. This event marked a rare moment of unity between the treasury and opposition benches.
Om Birla, a three-time BJP MP, was elected as the Lok Sabha Speaker for the second consecutive term, having won the election by a voice vote. As the House applauded Birla’s election, Prime Minister Modi, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju escorted him to the Speaker’s chair. Congratulating Birla, the Prime Minister praised his “sweet smile” for keeping the entire House happy and acknowledged the honor of being elected to the chair for the second time.
In their congratulatory messages, opposition leaders emphasized the importance of allowing the Opposition to speak, highlighting that they too represent the voice of the people. Rahul Gandhi expressed confidence that Birla would allow the Opposition to be heard, stressing that the efficiency of running the House should not come at the cost of silencing dissent. He emphasized that this election demonstrated the people’s expectation for the Opposition to defend the Constitution.
Several opposition leaders brought up the mass suspension of MPs in the last term during their congratulatory messages. They underscored the need for a more inclusive and democratic approach in the proceedings of the House. This election is seen as a significant moment in Indian parliamentary history, symbolizing a call for greater democratic practices and inclusivity in legislative processes.
Prime Minister Modi’s warm congratulations to Birla, acknowledging his leadership and the honor of his re-election, set a positive tone. The event highlighted the unity between the ruling party and the Opposition, at least momentarily, as they came together to support the newly re-elected Speaker. This unity, however, was accompanied by a strong message from the Opposition about their role and the importance of their voice in the democratic process.
The re-election of Om Birla as the Lok Sabha Speaker is not just a procedural event but a reflection of the current political climate in India. It underscores the balancing act required between maintaining order in the House and ensuring that diverse voices are heard. The Opposition’s insistence on being allowed to speak and their reference to past suspensions highlight ongoing tensions and the need for a more balanced and fair approach in parliamentary proceedings.
Om Birla’s second term as Lok Sabha Speaker will be watched closely for how he manages these dynamics. His ability to navigate between maintaining decorum and allowing robust debate will be crucial in shaping the functioning of the House. The support from both sides of the aisle, as demonstrated during his election, provides a promising start, but the challenges ahead are significant.
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