Opposition Pushes for No-Confidence Motion Against Speaker Amid Disputes

On 9 February 2026, both houses of the Indian Parliament were adjourned after persistent disruptions caused by opposition protests. The Lok Sabha was briefly convened but faced repeated adjournments due to demands from opposition members, including Congress Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. The ongoing tension revolves around allegations of government inaction and procedural fairness, particularly regarding opposition leaders' right to speak.

The Lok Sabha was initially convened at 11 am but was adjourned multiple times, eventually resuming briefly before being adjourned again until Tuesday, February 10. This turmoil coincided with discussions of a possible no-confidence motion against Speaker Om Birla, as opposition members expressed grievances about their inability to participate meaningfully in debates. Gandhi alleged that he had received assurance from the Speaker to raise his concerns before the budget discussion but accused the Chair of retracting that commitment.

Gandhi stated during the session, “Speaker committed, personally committed to us, that I would be allowed to speak here before the budget discussion. Now you are going back on your word,” addressing his remarks to MP Sandhya Ray, who was presiding in Birla's absence.

In contrast, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju refuted Gandhi's claims, asserting that no such assurance was rendered. Rijiju explained that discussions among parliamentary members, including Congress MP K.C. Venugopal, confirmed the Speaker’s stance that the House should function with everyone adhering to procedural guidelines. Rijiju remarked, “What Rahul Gandhi said is 100 per cent false, speaker has not said that.”

The adjournments extended beyond the Lok Sabha, with the Rajya Sabha experiencing similar disruptions. Opposition MPs interrupted proceedings to demand the right to speak, hindering the Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, as he attempted to address the House. The Chairman reiterated that matters pertaining to the Lok Sabha could not be discussed in the Rajya Sabha, which only escalated the protests.

The congress party and other opposition factions have voiced their discontent, indicating plans for the no-confidence motion against Om Birla amid rising tensions within Parliament. They contend their voices are being suppressed as critical issues, including the controversial India-US trade deal, are not permitted to be discussed openly.

As the standoff continues, crucial discussions regarding the Union Budget remain stalled, with both houses adjourned until disputes are resolved. Reports indicate that the opposition is demanding greater accountability from the government and a restoration of fair speaking rights for all members.

The current situation reflects a broader concern regarding the functioning of Indian democracy and the need for respect towards procedural norms and opposition rights in legislative deliberations.