Rahul Gandhi criticizes Speaker Om Birla for stifling opposition voices in Lok Sabha

In a heated exchange over parliamentary procedures, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi accused Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla of not allowing him to speak, suggesting this as an improper way to conduct the House's proceedings.

Addressing the media, Gandhi expressed frustration, stating, "I requested permission to speak, but the Speaker just walked away. This isn’t how the House should be run. He made unsubstantiated comments about me and adjourned the House unnecessarily."

The Congress leader from Rae Bareli emphasized the traditional practice that grants the Leader of the Opposition a platform to address the House. "Every time I stand up, I'm prevented from speaking. We are being silenced. I’ve done nothing but remain seated quietly, yet I haven’t been allowed to speak for over a week," Gandhi lamented. He further argued that this approach signals a lack of space for Opposition voices, adding, "When the Prime Minister discussed the Kumbh Mela, I wanted to raise unemployment issues but was silenced."

Ahead of adjourning the House, Speaker Om Birla underscored the importance of maintaining decorum.

"Members should adhere to high standards of conduct," Birla noted, referencing Rule 349, which outlines expected behavior in the House. His comments followed last week's uproar when Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on the Maha Kumbh, highlighting the event as a testament to India's global capabilities.

As Modi spoke, Opposition members protested, raising concerns over the Prayagraj stampede casualties. Despite the uproar, Speaker Birla invoked Rule 372, which permits the Prime Minister or any minister to make statements unchallenged.

Reflecting on the session, Gandhi expressed his earnest intentions to reinforce Modi's message on the cultural significance of Kumbh while highlighting the lack of attention to those who perished.

"While Kumbh represents our heritage, the Prime Minister should have acknowledged the tragedy as well," Gandhi said. He also noted that the event should have been an opportunity to discuss job prospects for young attendees.

Addressing the persistent challenges in speaking, he added, "In a democratic setup, the Leader of the Opposition should be heard. But this is the reality in what they call New India."