Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a sharp attack on the Opposition in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, accusing its members of disregarding parliamentary rules and discipline while complaining about being denied the opportunity to speak.
Responding to allegations that Opposition microphones were being turned off during debates, Shah said such action was justified if members failed to follow parliamentary procedures.
“Those who do not respect the rules and do not maintain discipline will have their microphones switched off — and that is exactly what should happen,” he said. “The Opposition says it is not being allowed to speak, but it must also follow the rules of the House.”
‘Bring No-Confidence Motion Against PM, Not Speaker’
Shah also criticised the Opposition for moving a no-confidence motion against Om Birla, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, describing the move as inappropriate in parliamentary practice.
“If the Opposition wants to bring a no-confidence motion against the Prime Minister, they are free to do so in the Lok Sabha,” Shah said. “But bringing such a motion against the custodian of the House is something I cannot agree with.”
He pointed out that removing the Speaker requires an effective majority and said the resolution seeking Birla’s removal reflected poorly on parliamentary traditions.
“It is unfortunate for parliamentary democracy that a resolution to remove the Speaker has been brought before the House,” Shah said.
Speaker’s Position Above Party Lines
Shah reminded the House that when Birla was elected Speaker, both treasury and Opposition benches had supported his appointment.
“When the present Speaker assumed office, members from both sides of the House escorted him to the Chair together,” he said.
He added that disputes involving the Speaker are usually resolved through dialogue rather than formal motions.
“Normally, such issues are discussed with the Speaker in his chamber, or a special meeting of both sides is called. Matters generally get resolved that way,” Shah said.
Expressing concern about the current atmosphere, he added, “Now there is even talk about the safety of the Speaker. Nothing could be more unfortunate than that.”
‘Speaker’s Rulings Must Be Accepted’
Shah stressed that the Constitution places the Speaker in a neutral role, acting as a mediator in the functioning of the House.
“The Speaker’s position is above party politics. The Constitution has entrusted the Speaker with the responsibility of acting as a mediator,” he said. “But by bringing this motion, you have questioned that role.”
The Home Minister also recalled that when the Bharatiya Janata Party sat in the Opposition, it never sought the Speaker’s removal.
“We may not always agree with the Speaker’s rulings,” Shah said. “But once the decision is made, it is binding and should not be doubted.”
The remarks came during an intense debate over the Opposition-backed motion seeking the removal of Speaker Om Birla, reflecting rising tensions in the Lok Sabha.
