A sharp political exchange unfolded in the Lok Sabha as Union Home Minister Amit Shah strongly criticised the opposition INDIA bloc while speaking during a debate on a no-confidence motion moved against Speaker Om Birla.

The motion, brought by opposition parties, accused the Speaker of favouring the ruling coalition in parliamentary proceedings. Opposition members claimed that microphones of their MPs were switched off during debates and that disciplinary action was disproportionately directed at opposition lawmakers.

Leaders from the ruling National Democratic Alliance defended Birla, saying several important legislations had been successfully passed during his tenure as Speaker and that he had conducted proceedings fairly.

Shah backs Speaker, questions motion

While addressing the House on Wednesday, Amit Shah strongly supported Om Birla and criticised the opposition for bringing the motion. He said the Speaker holds a constitutional position and is elected with support from members across political lines, both from the government and the opposition.

Shah argued that questioning the Speaker’s impartiality undermines parliamentary traditions and weakens democratic institutions. Using a metaphor during his speech, he said the opposition had pushed the dignity of democratic institutions “below ground level.”

Criticism over Rahul Gandhi’s attendance

During the debate, Shah also targeted Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition, raising questions about his participation in parliamentary proceedings.

The Home Minister alleged that Gandhi frequently misses discussions on important issues and spends time abroad instead of attending debates in Parliament. Shah also rejected claims that Gandhi had been prevented from speaking in the House, asserting that no restrictions had been placed on him.

According to Shah, Gandhi himself had chosen to skip discussions due to overseas visits to countries including Germany and United Kingdom.

Remarks on parliamentary conduct

Shah also criticised Gandhi over certain gestures he had made during earlier parliamentary sessions, referring to incidents such as blowing kisses or rolling his eyes during debates.

Calling such behaviour inappropriate, the Home Minister urged opposition members, particularly those from the Indian National Congress, to maintain decorum inside the House.

Opposition protests

Shah’s remarks triggered loud protests from opposition benches. Several MPs demanded that he withdraw his statements and apologise for his comments about the Leader of the Opposition.

During the uproar, Congress leader K. C. Venugopal questioned whether the no-confidence motion was meant to address concerns about Speaker Om Birla or to target Rahul Gandhi personally.

Despite the disruptions and sloganeering, Shah continued his speech, reiterating his criticism and claiming that Gandhi’s attendance record in the Lok Sabha was lower than the national average among MPs. He also alleged that the opposition leader had missed key parliamentary events, including the President’s address.