Opposition MPs submit notice seeking removal of LS Speaker, Pg11

Key Highlights:

• Opposition parties in the INDIA alliance submitted a notice on Tuesday seeking the removal of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
• The notice cites alleged partisan conduct in the House proceedings.
• Approximately 120 MPs signed the notice, submitted to the Lok Sabha Secretary-General.
• The Trinamool Congress did not sign the notice.
• The BJP has criticized the Opposition's move.

Detailed Insights:

• The notice alleges that Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition, was not allowed to complete his speech on the Motion of Thanks to the President on February 2.
• The notice also mentions the "arbitrary suspension" of eight Opposition MPs on February 3 for the entire Budget session.
• The Opposition claims a BJP MP was allowed to make objectionable remarks against former Prime Ministers without reprimand.
• Under Article 94C of the Constitution, the Speaker can be removed by a resolution passed by a simple majority in the House, following a 14-day notice period.
• Article 96 of the Constitution allows the Speaker to respond to the notice for removal, provided the charges are specific.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Motion of Thanks: A formal address by the President to a joint session of Parliament, outlining the government's policies and achievements.
• Simple Majority: A majority in which more than 50% of the members present and voting support a motion or resolution.
• Impeachment: A formal process by which a legislative body levels charges against a government official.