Opposition Notice on Lok Sabha Speaker Returned for Fixes

February 11, 2026

New Delhi, Feb 11: A notice submitted by opposition MPs in the Lok Sabha against Speaker Om Birla was returned on Wednesday due to procedural “shortcomings” in its drafting. However, the Speaker permitted the rectification of the notice, allowing opposition parties to revise and resubmit it after correcting the identified errors.

What Happened in Parliament

The opposition had sought action under Rule 267 of the Lok Sabha Rule Book — a provision that empowers members to raise a motion of breach of privilege against the Speaker. However, when the notice was taken up for formal acceptance, officials pointed out drafting irregularities and incomplete procedural compliance, prompting the Speaker to return it to the movers for correction.

Speaker Om Birla clarified that while the notice could not be admitted in its present form, the opposition MPs were allowed to rectify it and re‑table the motion after addressing the highlighted issues.

Basis of the Opposition’s Complaint

Opposition leaders had alleged partiality and procedural lapses by the Chair, arguing that the Speaker had acted “below the dignity of the House” during recent parliamentary sessions. They pointed to specific instances where they felt rules were not correctly applied in handling debates and notices particularly around contentious issues such as the India‑US interim trade deal and other legislative business.

However, the returned notice raised questions about whether all procedural requirements had been fulfilled before submission, including signatories, framing of charges and clear linking to relevant rule provisions. Parliament officials highlighted these gaps during the review.

Birla Allows Rectification

In response to requests from opposition members, Speaker Birla said the notice would be returned for rectification rather than completely rejected, citing the importance of parliamentary fairness and democratic procedures. He instructed the movers to address the identified shortcomings and submit a revised version that complies with Rule 267.

The opposition welcomed the opportunity to rectify the notice but maintained that their underlying concerns about the Speaker’s conduct and handling of the House remain unresolved.

Political Reactions from Parties

Leaders from opposition parties, including the Congress, Trinamool Congress (TMC) and others, criticised the Speaker’s office for what they described as an attempt to delay scrutiny of their grievances. They reiterated calls for transparency and fair application of procedural norms in Parliament.

Government benches, however, defended the Speaker’s decision as appropriate and in line with parliamentary rules, emphasizing that procedural compliance is essential before any privilege motion can be admitted.

What Happens Next

Opposition MPs are expected to revise the notice in consultation with parliamentary experts before re‑tabling it. Once resubmitted in correct form, it could be taken up for consideration in the Lok Sabha, subject to review by the Speaker.

Until then, the focus remains on procedural correctness and the ongoing debate over parliamentary conduct and accountability.