In a significant moment of unity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who is set to assume the role of Leader of the Opposition, shook hands today in the Parliament as they together welcomed the newly re-elected Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla. This gesture marked a fresh chapter in the 18th Lok Sabha.
The Election of Om Birla
The election results were declared by Pro-tem Speaker Bhartruhari Mahtab after the Opposition, which had put forward Congress MP K Suresh as its candidate, chose not to push for a vote on the motion. This led to a smooth re-election for Om Birla, who will now serve as the Lok Sabha Speaker for a second term.
Following the announcement, Prime Minister Modi, accompanied by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and Rahul Gandhi, approached Om Birla’s seat in the front row of the treasury benches to escort him to the Speaker’s chair.
Congratulatory Messages
In his congratulatory message, Prime Minister Modi expressed his confidence in Birla’s leadership, saying, “It is a matter of honour that you have been elected to this chair for the second time. I congratulate you on behalf of the entire House and look forward to your guidance for the next five years. Your sweet smile keeps the entire House happy.”
Rahul Gandhi, representing the Opposition and the INDIA alliance, also extended his congratulations, emphasizing the importance of the Speaker’s role in parliamentary democracy. “You are the final arbiter of people’s voice. The government may have political power, but the Opposition also represents the voice of the people. The Opposition would like to assist you in your work, and I am confident you will allow us to speak in the House,” Gandhi said.
The Role of the Leader of the Opposition
The role of the Leader of the Opposition in India dates back to 1969 when Ram Suhag Singh first held the post. Since then, it has evolved to become a cornerstone of parliamentary democracy. The Leader of the Opposition plays a key part in the appointment of key officials such as the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), the Central Vigilance Commissioner (CVC), and members of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), and the Lokayukta. This role ensures a check and balance within the government, holding it accountable to the public.
A New Chapter in Parliamentary Democracy
As the 18th Lok Sabha begins its journey, the collaborative spirit shown by Prime Minister Modi and Rahul Gandhi in welcoming Speaker Om Birla signifies a hopeful start. Their handshake and mutual respect underscore the potential for constructive dialogue and cooperation, crucial for addressing the nation’s challenges and advancing its democratic processes. The coming years will test this unity and the effectiveness of the new leadership roles, shaping the future of India’s parliamentary democracy.
