Om Birla: Freedom of Speech in Parliament Must Follow Constitutional Rules

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Om Birla said MPs’ freedom of speech in Parliament is subject to constitutional provisions and House rules.
The statement came after a debate on a resolution seeking his removal.
Birla urged MPs to maintain parliamentary decorum and respect democratic institutions.

New Delhi: Om Birla on Thursday said that while Members of Parliament enjoy freedom of speech in the House, it must operate within the framework of the Constitution and parliamentary rules.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha a day after a lengthy debate on a resolution seeking his removal, Birla emphasised that parliamentary speech is governed by constitutional provisions and established procedures.

Referring to Article 105 of the Constitution of India, he noted that freedom of speech for MPs is guaranteed but remains subject to the rules and standing orders regulating House proceedings.

Om Birla on Freedom of Speech in Parliament

Birla said the House had witnessed more than 12 hours of discussion during the debate, with members from different political parties presenting their perspectives.

He thanked MPs for participating in the debate and said parliamentary discussions allow diverse opinions to be expressed within a democratic framework.

The data suggests that structured debate remains central to parliamentary functioning, enabling legislators to raise concerns and represent their constituencies.

Speaker Rejects Claims on Microphone Control

Addressing allegations from opposition members that microphones were switched off during their speeches, Birla clarified that the Chair does not control microphone activation.

He explained that the system automatically activates microphones only for the member who has been permitted to speak.

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What the clarification indicates is the Speaker’s attempt to address concerns about fairness in parliamentary proceedings.

Call for Parliamentary Decorum

Birla also stressed the importance of maintaining discipline in the House.

He said activities such as slogan shouting, displaying placards, tearing papers or entering the Well of the House undermine the dignity of Parliament.

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

Responsibility of MPs Towards Democratic Institutions

The Speaker reminded members that Parliament represents the aspirations of nearly 1.4 billion citizens of India.

He urged both the Treasury benches and the Opposition to work together to uphold democratic traditions and strengthen institutions.

Birla also reiterated that women MPs have been encouraged to participate actively in debates and discussions during his tenure.

Concluding his remarks, he said protecting the dignity of institutions is essential for democracy, adding that weakening them would harm the nation as a whole.

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