Om Birla to step away as Lok Sabha Speaker amid Opposition's no-trust move: Sources

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday decided that he will not attend the House until discussion and a decision are taken on the no-confidence motion moved by Opposition MPs seeking his removal, sources said.

Although there is no such compulsion under the rules, he has chosen not to attend the House. Even if there are attempts by the government or the opposition to persuade him, he will not attend.

There is a possibility that the motion to remove the Speaker may be taken up for discussion on the very first day of the second part of the Budget Session, on March



9.

For this, fifty MPs will be required to raise their hands. After this, the Chair may allow a discussion on the motion.

Under Article 96(1) of the Constitution, a Speaker cannot preside over any sitting, even if present, when a resolution for his or her removal is under consideration.

However, the Speaker has the right to participate in and speak during the proceedings, giving them an opportunity to defend against the charges. During such proceedings, the Speaker may be present on the floor of the Lok Sabha but must vacate the Chair.