New Delhi, June 24 – Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has staunchly defended the appointment of BJP MP Bhartruhari Mahtab as the pro-tem Speaker amidst growing criticism and boycott by opposition parties. The controversy stems from the appointment bypassing Congress leader K Suresh, a senior eighth-term MP, in favor of Mahtab, a seventh-term MP.
In a press briefing addressing the media, Rijiju asserted, “The appointment of the pro-tem Speaker is a routine administrative procedure aimed at facilitating the oath-taking ceremony of newly elected members and assisting in the election of the new Speaker. This role has traditionally been non-controversial in the history of the Indian Parliament.”
Rijiju further clarified, “I have consulted with leaders across party lines, including DMK Parliamentary Party leader TR Baalu, and there is consensus that the pro-tem Speaker’s appointment has never been an issue.”
Despite Rijiju’s efforts to downplay the significance of the appointment, opposition parties, notably Congress and India Bloc, have expressed discontent over what they perceive as a departure from established parliamentary norms. They argue that the decision undermines the principle of seniority and represents a deviation from longstanding traditions in the selection process.
Congress leader K Suresh voiced his disappointment, highlighting his seniority and experience as factors overlooked in the appointment. His sentiments were echoed by Congress MP Hibi Eden, who criticized the NDA government for disregarding established customs in parliamentary proceedings.
The controversy surrounding Mahtab’s appointment as pro-tem Speaker underscores ongoing tensions between the ruling BJP-led coalition and opposition parties, setting the stage for potential confrontations as the new parliamentary session unfolds. As stakeholders on both sides continue to assert their positions, the focus remains on maintaining the integrity and fairness of parliamentary practices amidst evolving political dynamics in India.