Rahul Gandhi Challenges Lok Sabha Speaker, Claims Unjust Silence in Parliament

In a heated exchange, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla of preventing him from speaking in the House. Gandhi aimed to address issues like Maha Kumbh Mela and unemployment but was allegedly cut short. The incident sparked discussions on parliamentary decorum and democratic expression.

Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, launched a blistering critique against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday, claiming he was denied an opportunity to voice his concerns in the parliamentary session. Gandhi, voicing discontent, alleged that the Speaker made an 'unsubstantiated remark' about him before prematurely adjourning the House.

Gandhi expressed confusion over the proceedings, stating, "I don't know what is going on...I requested him to let me speak but he (Speaker) just ran away. This is no way to run the House." He criticized what he viewed as a lack of democratic space, adding that he wished to discuss matters such as the Maha Kumbh Mela and unemployment.

In defense, Speaker Om Birla highlighted the importance of adhering to parliamentary rules, urging all members, including Gandhi, to maintain conduct befitting the House's decorum. The confrontation sparked further debate, with Congress MP Karti Chidambaram expressing bewilderment over the adjournment's reasons, recalling it to the stern atmosphere of a school assembly.

(With inputs from agencies.)