Congress Considering No-Confidence Motion Against LS Speaker, But Unsure Of Complete Opposition Support: Report

Congress has reportedly stepped up its protest against Rahul Gandhi's disqualification as Lok Sabha member, with party MP Manish Tewari proposing to the leadership that they issue a notice to move a no-confidence motion against Speaker Om Birla.

Tewari was requested by the leadership to create a notice, which he submitted on Tuesday (28 March),

However, the party has yet to determine if it will go through with it.

The Congress leadership is uncertain if other opposition parties will support the motion, Indian Express reported citing sources.

Some opposition leaders have reportedly indicated their reluctance to support such a measure.

The Congress leadership, according to sources cited by IE, don't want to signal any division among the opposition.

The Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha prescribe a process for the removal of the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker.

A member intending to give notice of a resolution for removal shall do so in writing to the Secretary-General. On receipt of the notice, a motion for leave to move the resolution will be entered in the list of business in the member's name.

The Speaker will fix a day for this after a period of 14 days from the receipt of notice.

This established procedure ensures that the removal of any functionary is a well-considered process that provides a fair opportunity for the member concerned to put forward their case.

The Congress' pursuit of a no-confidence motion holds symbolic significance as the Budget Session of Parliament concludes in a week.

However, it can only be listed 14 days after the notice receipt, making it primarily a political statement.

Some Congress leaders are reportedly still considering the move to make a point.