Opposition to Debate No-Confidence Against Lok Sabha Speaker

Opposition parties in India's Lok Sabha are set to debate a no-confidence motion against Speaker Om Birla on March 9, when the second phase of the Budget session resumes in New Delhi, amid accusations of partisan conduct during recent parliamentary proceedings.

The motion, submitted by 118 members of parliament from various opposition groups, seeks Birla's removal for allegedly favoring the ruling National Democratic Alliance while restricting opposition voices. Key grievances include the Speaker's refusal to allow Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi to speak during discussions on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address and the suspension of eight opposition MPs in the session's first phase for raising public concerns. Opposition leaders have also cited instances where Birla reportedly made allegations against women MPs from their ranks and failed to rebuke ruling party members for derogatory remarks against former prime ministers.

Under parliamentary rules, the resolution requires at least 50 MPs to stand in support when called by the Chair for it to be admitted for debate. If admitted, the House will discuss the matter before voting, with passage needing a majority...