BJP to retain Lok Sabha Speaker’s post, sources say.
The BJP plans to reach out to opposition parties to ensure the Lok Sabha Speaker is elected unanimously. This move aims to foster a collaborative spirit and ensure smooth functioning of parliamentary proceedings during the upcoming session.
In New Delhi, the BJP is poised to maintain control of the Speaker’s position for the 18th Lok Sabha, with sources indicating that a BJP MP is likely to be elected for the role. Dismissing media reports suggesting that BJP’s allies had demanded the Speaker’s post, a senior party leader emphasized that internal deliberations would precede any discussions with NDA allies to ensure consensus.
During the Modi government’s initial term, Sumitra Mahajan, a BJP MP from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, served as Lok Sabha Speaker, followed by Om Birla, a BJP MP from Kota, Rajasthan, in the subsequent term. Despite not commanding the same majority as in 2014 and 2019, speculation had circulated regarding contenders from the TDP and JD(U) for the Speaker’s position.
Sources indicated that deliberations on the new Lok Sabha Speaker’s appointment would commence after Prime Minister Narendra Modi returns from Italy. Should suggestions or demands arise from allies, the BJP affirmed readiness to consider alternative approaches.
Ahead of the 18th Lok Sabha’s first session commencing on June 24, the BJP intends to engage opposition parties to secure unanimous election of the Speaker. If consensus is achieved, an election may be unnecessary. However, if the opposition nominates a candidate, a vote could occur on June 26, with the new Speaker assuming office the same day.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has announced the schedule for the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha and the 264th Session of the Rajya Sabha. The Lok Sabha’s session is set to begin from June 24, 2024, and will continue until July 3, 2024. During this period, newly elected Members of Parliament will take their oath or affirmation. Additionally, the session will include the crucial tasks of electing the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the President’s Address, and discussions on various legislative matters.
Simultaneously, the Rajya Sabha’s 264th Session will commence on June 27, 2024, and will also conclude on July 3, 2024. This session is expected to address significant issues affecting the country, with debates and deliberations anticipated on a range of topics crucial to national governance and policy.
The scheduling of these sessions marks the formal commencement of the parliamentary proceedings for the newly constituted Lok Sabha, following the general elections. It underscores the importance of parliamentary democracy in India, where elected representatives gather to enact laws, debate policies, and address the nation’s concerns.
As preparations intensify for the sessions, political parties and parliamentarians are expected to gear up for their respective roles and responsibilities, ensuring constructive dialogue and effective governance during these crucial sessions.