With the historic Lok Sabha Speaker election set to take place on Wednesday, the opposition INDIA bloc appears confident of a strong showing against the ruling NDA’s candidate.
Congress MP K Suresh, the INDIA bloc’s nominee for the prestigious post, has asserted that the opposition is united and will likely seek a division of votes during the election. Speaking to CNN-News18, Suresh expressed optimism about their chances, stating, “The numbers are not an issue. This is a fight against the bulldozing of democracy in the country. We will ask for a division of votes.”
Addressing concerns about potential differences within the INDIA bloc, Suresh sought to clear the air, saying, “There’s no issue between our partners. All were present at yesterday’s meeting, and any misunderstandings have been sorted out.”
The election on Wednesday will be conducted through paper slips, as the electronic voting system is not yet operational in the newly constituted Lok Sabha, where members are still being allocated seats.
TMC Unhappy with ‘Unilateral’ Decision
However, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has expressed displeasure over the opposition’s decision to field Suresh as the joint candidate. TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee stated that his party was not consulted.
“No one contacted us; there have been no talks. Unfortunately, this has been a unilateral decision,” Banerjee said, adding that the party leadership, including Mamata Banerjee, will decide their stand on the issue.
Later, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Banerjee were seen engaged in a discussion within the Lok Sabha premises, fueling speculation about a potential resolution to the disagreement.
Opposition’s Ultimatum to Government
Meanwhile, Congress sources have revealed that the INDIA bloc is willing to withdraw its Speaker candidate if the government assures the opposition the post of Deputy Speaker before 11 am on Wednesday. However, per the rules, the nomination cannot be withdrawn once filed.
The ruling BJP-led NDA has renominated the previous Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla, for the position, maintaining its continuity. But the opposition’s decision to field a candidate has forced a rare contested election, after the BJP did not agree to the INDIA bloc’s demand for the Deputy Speaker post in exchange for their support for Birla.
The stage is set for a high-stakes battle as the opposition seeks to challenge the NDA’s dominance in the Lok Sabha through this crucial election.
