New Delhi, March 12 (NationPress) In a significant moment for the Lok Sabha, Speaker Om Birla addressed the House for the first time following the rejection of the no-confidence motion against him. He expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the members for their engagement in the debate and for sharing their insights. Birla underscored that the operations of Parliament are strictly governed by established rules and regulations.

During his address to the Lok Sabha, Om Birla noted that the discussion on the motion spanned over 12 hours, allowing members to voice their concerns and perspectives.

“The debate on the motion against the Lok Sabha Speaker extended beyond 12 hours, offering an opportunity for every member to share their thoughts and concerns,” Birla stated.

He further asserted that the Lok Sabha embodies the democratic spirit of the people of India.

“This House symbolizes the sovereign will of India's 1.4 billion citizens. Each member here has been elected with the mandate of thousands of people and holds the duty of realizing the dreams and expectations of the citizens,” he remarked.

Birla emphasized that throughout his tenure, he has made concerted efforts to ensure that all members have a chance to express themselves.

“I have consistently aimed to provide every member with a platform to voice their opinions in the House. I have also motivated those who might feel hesitant to speak to come forward and share their thoughts. During my two terms as Speaker, I have encouraged members reluctant to engage in debates to participate actively, as it fortifies the pillars of democracy,” he explained.

He reiterated that the Lok Sabha aspires to be the voice of every citizen in the nation and that he has persistently worked towards preserving this ideal.

Referring to constitutional provisions, Birla pointed out that the role of the Speaker is enshrined in Article 93 of the Constitution.

“Article 93 of the Constitution provides for the office of the Speaker, and I have been honored to serve in this role twice. I have strived to conduct the proceedings of the House with transparency, discipline, balance, and adherence to the rules. I have upheld my duty to maintain orderly and peaceful proceedings,” he stated.

Birla also addressed the no-confidence motion submitted by the Opposition on February 10, 2026, explaining that he consciously distanced himself from the proceedings for a few days to allow for impartial discussions.

“In the past two days, members of the House articulated various opinions on the matter. I attentively listened to each member,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to all members who participated in the debate, regardless of their stance.

“I extend my thanks to everyone who contributed during the discussion—those who supported me and those who expressed opposition. In a democracy, every opinion holds significance. The position of Speaker is not an individual’s; it embodies the collective will of the House and the dignity of this esteemed institution,” he affirmed.

Birla also responded to allegations made by some members regarding the exclusion of Opposition MPs from speaking.

“I wish to clarify that every member of this House has the right to speak, but it must align with the established rules. Some members assume that the Leader of the Opposition possesses the privilege to speak on any matter at any time, yet no such privilege exists,” he elaborated.

He reiterated the necessity for the House to operate in accordance with established parliamentary protocols.

“These rules were not devised by the ruling party or the Opposition; they are part of our parliamentary legacy,” he stated.

Birla further emphasized that, in line with constitutional provisions, members are required to provide notice and seek the Speaker's approval before bringing certain issues before the House.

“As per Article 372, members must provide notice and obtain prior approval from the Speaker before raising specific matters,” he affirmed, reaffirming his commitment to upholding transparency and discipline in the functioning of the Lok Sabha.