Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla stated that he has always strived to ensure that the proceedings of the House are conducted with impartiality, discipline, balance, and in accordance with the rules. Responding to the opposition's resolution seeking his removal, which was rejected yesterday, Mr. Birla said that he has fulfilled his responsibility by maintaining order and efficiency through cooperation and harmony with everyone. The Speaker emphasized that he has always tried to ensure that the dignity, decorum, and prestige of the House continue to grow. He also stated that he has tried to provide adequate opportunities to all the members.
During the discussion, some members alleged that the Leader of the Opposition is being prevented from speaking and is not given sufficient opportunity to speak. Mr. Birla clarified that whether it is the Leader of the House, the Leader of the Opposition, or any other member, everyone has the right to speak in the House only in accordance with the rules and procedures. The Speaker reiterated that no member has any special privilege to speak in this House beyond the rules. The Lok Sabha Speaker also clarified that during the discussion, some members from the opposition raised the issue that their microphones were switched off by the Chair. He clarified that the Chair never has a button to switch the microphones on or off.
