Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi has accused Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla of not allowing him to speak in the House, calling it an improper way to conduct parliamentary proceedings. Addressing the media, Gandhi expressed his frustration, stating that despite requesting to speak, the Speaker left without granting him the opportunity. He criticized the Speaker for making an unsubstantiated remark about him before abruptly adjourning the session, which he deemed unnecessary.

The Congress leader, who represents Rae Bareli, pointed out that the convention allows the Leader of the Opposition to address the House, but he has been repeatedly denied the chance. He claimed that for over a week, he has not been allowed to speak, despite remaining silent and making no disruptions. Gandhi described this as a deliberate strategy to suppress the Opposition, highlighting a recent instance when he attempted to raise concerns about unemployment after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks on the Kumbh Mela but was prevented from doing so. Calling this a non-democratic way of functioning, he questioned the Speaker’s approach.

Before adjourning the House, Speaker Om Birla reminded members of their responsibility to maintain decorum. He cited instances of misconduct and emphasized the high standards expected from parliamentarians. Referring to Rule 349, which outlines the expected conduct of members, Birla specifically mentioned that Gandhi should adhere to these norms. This controversy follows last week’s uproar in the House during Prime Minister Modi’s speech on the Maha Kumbh. The Prime Minister had praised the event in Prayagraj as a testament to India’s organizational capabilities. However, Opposition members interrupted his speech, demanding accountability for the deaths caused by a stampede at the event. In response, Speaker Birla invoked Rule 372, which allows the Prime Minister or any minister to make statements in the House without facing interruptions or questions.

Speaking to the media afterward, Rahul Gandhi clarified that he had wanted to support the Prime Minister’s remarks about the Kumbh, acknowledging its cultural and historical significance. However, he criticized Modi for failing to acknowledge the victims of the stampede. Gandhi also highlighted that young people expect employment opportunities during such events, suggesting that the Prime Minister should have addressed this issue. When asked about his repeated exclusion from parliamentary discussions, Gandhi reiterated that the Leader of the Opposition should be given a platform in a democratic setup, but lamented that they won’t let us speak. This is the new India.

Disclaimer: This Image is taken from The Hawk.