Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Thursday said that while Members of Parliament enjoy freedom of speech in the House, it is subject to the Constitution and the rules governing parliamentary proceedings.
Addressing the House a day after the debate on a resolution seeking his removal from office, Birla emphasised that no Member has the privilege to speak outside the framework of parliamentary rules.
“Freedom of speech in Parliament is guaranteed, but it is subject to the Constitution and the rules and standing orders regulating the procedure of the House,” the Speaker said, referring to provisions under Article 105 of the Constitution of India.
Birla said the House had witnessed over 12 hours of debate during the discussion on the resolution, during which Members from various parties presented their views and concerns. He thanked all MPs for participating in the discussion, noting that democratic debate allows every voice to be heard.
Responding to concerns about speaking opportunities, the Speaker clarified that the House functions according to rules framed by Parliament itself and that these rules apply equally to all Members. “No Hon’ble Member in this House possesses any privilege to speak outside the framework of these rules,” he said.
He also addressed allegations that microphones of Opposition members were switched off by the Chair. Birla clarified that the Chair does not have any control over microphone activation. “The Chair does not have any button to switch microphones on or off. The system activates the microphone only for the Member who has been permitted to speak,” he explained.
Emphasising the importance of parliamentary decorum, Birla said disruptions such as slogan-shouting, displaying placards, tearing papers and entering the Well of the House undermine the dignity and prestige of Parliament.
“Disagreement and intense debate are natural in a democracy, but there is a clear line between democratic discourse and disorder,” he said, urging Members to uphold the traditions of parliamentary democracy.
The Speaker noted that Parliament represents the aspirations of nearly 1.4 billion people of India and that every Member carries the responsibility of raising public concerns and fulfilling the expectations of their constituents.
Birla also reiterated his respect for women MPs, stating that efforts have consistently been made to ensure they receive opportunities to speak in the House. He added that during his tenure, every woman Member, including first-time MPs, has been given the chance to express her views.
Concluding his remarks, the Speaker called on Members from both the Treasury benches and the Opposition to work together to maintain the dignity of Parliament and strengthen democratic institutions.
“Institutions are permanent and form the foundation of a strong democracy. If we ourselves diminish their prestige, the loss will not be of any individual or party, but of the entire nation,” he said, urging MPs to move forward with a constructive approach for national service and nation-building.
