TMC to support no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker: Report
What's the story
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has decided to back the no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The decision was taken on the instructions of TMC chairperson Mamata Banerjee, Moneycontrol reported. The move comes ahead of the second phase of the Budget Session, which starts on March 9. During this session, three Congress MPs, namely, Mohammad Jawed, Kodikunnil Suresh and Mallu Ravi, will introduce a resolution for Birla's removal.
Accusations detailed
No-confidence motion in response to Birla's alleged biased conduct
The no-confidence motion is in response to Birla's alleged biased conduct. He has been accused of not allowing Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders to speak on important issues. The Speaker also allegedly suspended eight opposition MPs while not taking action against ruling party members for "derogatory" remarks against former Prime Ministers.
Allegations escalated
Congress accuses Birla of making 'unwarranted allegations' against women MPs
The Congress has accused Birla of making "unwarranted allegations" against women opposition MPs. They also alleged that he suspended eight opposition members for an entire session for raising public concerns, but did not rebuke ruling party members for objectionable remarks against former PMs. The party claimed Birla's actions endanger the proper functioning of the House and prevent it from addressing people's grievances effectively.
Deliberation period
TMC initially decided to hold off on taking a stand
Initially, the TMC had decided to hold off on taking a stand, giving Birla time to address their concerns. TMC Parliamentary Party Leader Abhishek Banerjee had said that his party "believed in being more tolerant" and did not want to "flex muscles" through the notice. However, with Mamata Banerjee's direction, the party has now decided to support the no-confidence motion against Birla.
Session disruptions
First phase of budget session witnessed frequent disruptions
The first phase of the Budget Session was marred by frequent disruptions, especially after Gandhi tried to quote from General Naravane's memoir. Birla suspended eight opposition MPs for breaching House rules and said he would not conduct proceedings on moral grounds until the no-confidence motion was settled. Both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress have issued a three-line whip to their MPs to ensure attendance from March 9-11.