‘Political misdeed’: PM writes to Birla on now-defeated resolution against LS speaker, slams oppn
Prime Minister Modi made these remarks in a letter to Birla, days after the Parliament rejected the resolution moved by the Congress-led opposition to remove the Lok Sabha speaker.
Expressing gratitude for the letter, Birla said that the prime minister has always had unwavering faith in the rules, procedures and traditions of India’s parliamentary democracy.
Also Read: Dialogue, debate, democracy: Om Birla praises PM Modi’s note on parliamentary traditions
In his letter in Hindi, Modi said, “The no-confidence motion tabled against you in the Lok Sabha was rejected in the Parliament. I also congratulate the members of the House for resolutely rejecting this political evil.”
“I listened carefully to the statement you made in the Parliament after the defeat of the no-confidence motion. The balance, patience and clarity you showed when referring to the history of the Parliament, the duties of the Speaker of the Parliament and the supremacy of the rules were truly impressive. Therefore, I offer my appreciation,” he said.
“Your statement was not merely a response to that specific moment; rather, it served as a profound and sober exposition of Indian parliamentary traditions and democratic expediency,” the Prime Minister said.Also Read: Leader of Opposition not above House rules: Speaker Birla
Modi stated that the greatest strength of Indian democracy lies in its constitutional institutions, adding that Parliament is the highest forum among these institutions.
He said that every voice raised in this House represents the hopes and aspirations of millions of citizens across the country.
In his letter to Birla, Modi said: “In such a context, the responsibility of the Lok Sabha Speaker goes beyond merely conducting hearings; the Speaker also serves as the guardian of democratic traditions, parliamentary rules and institutional dignity. The clarity with which you assert in your statement that no one in this House is above the rules sends a message that reaffirms the fundamental spirit of our democracy.” said Modi in his letter to Birla.
“Differences of opinion are in the nature of democracy. In fact, it is the diversity of ideas that gives vitality to democracy. But it is equally true that there is a clear boundary between disagreement and disrespect,” the Prime Minister said. he said.
Modi said that the way political disagreements sometimes turn into disregard for parliamentary etiquette is a matter of concern for all those who have faith in democracy and its institutions.
He said such moments serve as a real test for the person sitting in the Presidential chair.
The Prime Minister said that the restraint, composure and impartiality you showed under these circumstances was truly commendable.
Hitting out at the Congress and the opposition, Modi said: “Every citizen of this nation, which cherishes democratic ideals, felt that the no-confidence motion against you was driven by motives of self-interest and arrogance.”
He said that this change of events creates distress for every individual who believes in the democratic process.
“This is not the first instance where this esteemed Speaker has had to face such challenging circumstances. Before you assumed this charge, when Hon. Smt. Sumitra Mahajan assumed this charge, we observed that the behavior of some members was not in line with the dignity expected of every member of this House,” Modi said.
“Even during that period, we witnessed unnecessary harsh and disrespectful behavior towards the President many times,” he said.
“It is regrettable that such tendencies continue even today. Such behavior is not directed solely at an individual; rather, it undermines the dignity of the institution that stands as the symbol of our entire democracy,” Modi said. he said.
He argued that the fundamental essence of parliament lies in dialogue, reasoned debate and negotiation.
“Every point of view must be given the opportunity for expression in these hallowed precincts. During your tenure, you have consistently strived to ensure that the maximum number of Members of Parliament are given the opportunity to speak in the House. Giving everyone the opportunity to express their views, whether young MPs, first-time elected representatives or women MPs, serves to expand the scope and inclusivity of our democracy,” he said.
Taking an open swipe at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Modi said, “The nation watches with horror as some individuals with dynastic and feudal mindsets try to confine our democratic institutions within their narrow spheres.”
He added that they find it difficult to easily accept the rise of any newcomer.
The Prime Minister also said that it was unacceptable that other elected representatives in this House, especially new and younger MPs, were not given equal opportunities to speak and advance.
He argued that such a mentality was against the spirit of democracy.
“The true essence of democracy lies in ensuring that opportunities are not limited to a select few, but instead provide a platform for the voices of every segment of society and every region of the country,” he said.
Greeting Birla, Modi said, “Under your administration, you have consistently tried to express this spirit further. The way you have carried out your duties even under challenging circumstances is truly inspiring.” he said.
The Prime Minister said he was pleased to note that Birla never allowed the interests of the people of his constituency to take a backseat even while shouldering such important national responsibilities.
“At the groundbreaking ceremony of the airport project in Kota recently, we witnessed the unwavering commitment you constantly strive for the development of your constituency. The balance you maintain between your national obligations and your responsibilities to your parliamentary constituents reflects your deep commitment as a public representative.” he said.
The Prime Minister said, “I am sure that you will continue to conduct the Lok Sabha proceedings with the same dedication, patience and impartiality in the future. It is our common responsibility to preserve the prestige of democratic institutions and further strengthen them.” he said.
Modi said that the dignity and dedication shown by Speaker Birla while discharging this duty will undoubtedly further strengthen parliamentary democracy.
Sharing Prime Minister Modi’s letter on X, Birla said that the Prime Minister has always had an unwavering belief in the rules, procedures and traditions of India’s parliamentary democracy.
“Your letter expresses the highest ethical values of public service that you have embodied throughout your long public life as the current Prime Minister of India and earlier as the Chief Minister of Gujarat,” Birla said in his Hindi post. he said.
“You have always had a deep belief in the fundamental nature of Parliament – dialogue, discussion and debate. You respect every voice voiced in Parliament and recognize that this voice is the voice of millions of Indian citizens. You consistently prioritize parliamentary proceedings above all else and seek to find solutions to every issue raised within the House,” the Lok Sabha speaker said. he said.
In his post, Birla told Modi that your message, going beyond partisan boundaries, will inspire all elected representatives in Parliament, state legislatures and local bodies and further strengthen the solid ethical foundation of democracy established by our freedom fighters and members of the Constituent Assembly and expressed gratitude for the letter.
The opposition move to remove Birla as speaker was rejected by voice vote in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday after a heated debate.
