No MP Has Privilege to Speak Outside Rules: Speaker Birla

• Speaker Om Birla says freedom of speech in Parliament operates within House rules
• Clarifies Chair cannot switch microphones on or off during debates
• Warns disruptions, slogan-shouting and placards damage dignity of Parliament
• Reiterates respect for women MPs and equal opportunity to speak

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 12th March: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday asserted that freedom of speech in Parliament is guaranteed but must operate within the framework of the Constitution and the rules governing the House, stressing that no member enjoys a special privilege to speak outside these rules.

Addressing the House a day after the debate on a resolution seeking his removal from office, Birla said parliamentary procedures clearly define how members should conduct themselves while speaking. He clarified that Article 105 of the Constitution, which provides freedom of speech in Parliament, also places that freedom within the ambit of parliamentary rules and procedures.

The Speaker said that during the debate on the motion against him, the House witnessed over twelve hours of discussion, with members from various parties expressing their views and concerns. He thanked members for participating in the debate and said such exchanges reflect the essence of democratic functioning.

Responding to allegations raised during the debate, Birla rejected the claim that microphones of opposition members were deliberately switched off. He clarified that the Chair does not have any button to control microphones, explaining that the system automatically activates the microphone of the member who has been formally permitted to speak.

Birla also addressed concerns about speaking opportunities for the Leader of the Opposition and other members. He emphasised that the House functions strictly according to the rules framed by Parliament itself, and no member—regardless of position—has the privilege to speak outside this framework.

Highlighting the significance of parliamentary institutions, the Speaker said the Chair does not belong to any individual but represents India’s democratic traditions and constitutional values. He added that he has always conducted the proceedings of the House with impartiality and in accordance with established procedures.

Birla also reaffirmed his highest respect for women members of Parliament, stating that efforts have consistently been made to ensure that women MPs, including first-time members, receive adequate opportunities to participate in debates.

The Speaker strongly criticised disruptive behaviour in the House, including slogan-shouting, displaying placards, tearing papers and approaching the Well of the House. Such actions, he said, undermine the dignity and prestige of Parliament and disrupt legislative functioning.

He recalled that earlier conferences of presiding officers and parliamentary leaders had unanimously resolved that such conduct damages the functioning of legislative institutions.

“Disagreement and intense debate are natural in a democracy, but there is a clear line between democratic discourse and disorder,” Birla said.

Calling for collective responsibility, the Speaker urged members across party lines to uphold parliamentary traditions and ensure that the institution continues to command the confidence of the people.

He concluded by appealing for a constructive approach going forward, saying both the Treasury Benches and the Opposition are equal guardians of Parliament, and the dignity of the institution must remain paramount.