In an exclusive interview with the iTV Network, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla spoke on several issues, including the Central Vista project and the Covid-19 pandemic. Birla, who completed two years as the Speaker, also provided his insights about the free and fair functioning of the parliamentary processes. Excerpts:
Q. First, I congratulate you on completing two successful years as the speaker of the Lok Sabha. However, these years were fraught with Covid-19. How did Parliament manage to function seamlessly?
A. Parliament works with uniform coordination of all the members and that’s what happened in these two years. Every member got an equal opportunity to express their thoughts and discussed many essential issues for the welfare of citizens.
Some very important bills were passed in my presence as a Speaker and I feel fortunate that members worked in earnest for their country, and we executed what we have taken oath for.
Q. There is a massive controversy surrounding the Central Vista project. The Opposition is alleging that the money could have been invested in augmenting healthcare infrastructure at the time when the country was mired in a deep crisis. What do you have to say?
A. On 5 August, both the houses of Parliament will complete their 100th anniversary, and during this time Parliament has witnessed some historic and breathtaking moments. Nevertheless, with time, a lot has changed, and accordingly, we unanimously decided that this new building is much needed and the President has given nod for the same.
Q. In 2022, we will celebrate 75 years of Independence. Do you think the construction work will be completed by that time?
A. Yes, we are confident that we will achieve it, as I often review the construction work and so does my office.
Q. On social media, people are alleging that the design of the new Parliament building is inspired by a temple in Madhya Pradesh. What do you think?
A. The general-purpose committee of the Lok Sabha deliberated upon the various designs provided by the architects. We asked the architecture company to keep various points into consideration—like the design of various Parliament buildings of different countries, essential aspects for easy movement, high tech security, and infrastructure, etc. Considering all these aspects, the architecture company showed us a few samples and hence we decided on one of the designs. I am unaware of the fact whether it is inspired by any temple or whatsoever.
Q. The Opposition is questioning that if most of the work is being conducted from home amid the pandemic, why don’t the parliamentary committees operate virtually as well? Has it been considered?
A. There are strict norms under Rule 266 which directs to keep the activity and discussion strictly prohibited from the public domain, and that the work must be done under utmost secrecy. Those who were demanding virtual operation of parliamentary committees must bring the issue to the Parliament Committee for Rules & Regulations which consists of members of all parties. There was never a uniform agreement upon the same, due to which the committee never came to any conclusion.
Q. Rahul Gandhi has recently alleged that whenever he speaks in Parliament his microphone or something else suffers technical glitches, due to which he is never able to express his points. Can you shed some light on the matter?
A. This is not true. Every honorable member is and was allotted equal time as per the guidelines. I have always given priority to honorable members and even extended their time limit so that they can complete their points. Such allegations are not true.
Q. LJP is going through massive political turmoil. Chirag Paswan is alleging that a sense of panic was observed from the table office as they changed the name of the leader. What do you have to say about this?
A. There is a proper protocol to follow when you are choosing a leader of the party in Parliament. Members of the party hold a meeting, and they choose a leader after the majority of the members agree upon it. Even in this incident, a free and fair process was followed, and accordingly, the decisions were taken.
On 13 June, they submitted a letter and it was examined, and then on 14th, the decision was taken. Later, Chirag Paswan expressed his dissent over the same and submitted his letter. We are examining it and we will act upon it sooner.
Q. What’s your view on the recent controversy surrounding social media handles? Recently, a case of Ghaziabad brought the issue under the limelight and the matter is being discussed on various platforms.
A. There must be a ‘check and post’ process when it comes to social media handles. Social media is a powerful tool and has a huge influence on society. However, without proper and strict watchdogs, it can create huge uproar and chaos in society.
Q. Will you please shed some light on the vaccination process of the members of Parliament?
A. So far 435 MPs have got vaccinated and a few are left because they had Covid-19 and can only be vaccinated after three months of their recovery.
Q. Can we expect the participation of MPs in the monsoon session?
A. Indeed. We are hopeful that the situation will be under control soon, and with a lot of enthusiasm, members of Parliament will participate in the session.
Q. What are your views regarding the issue of population control?
A. It’s the job of the government to introduce bills in Parliament. If any honorable member will table the bill, it will have a discussion and I will make sure things are done justly.
Q. How do you view the recent statement of Congress leader Digvijaya Singh regarding the abrogation of Article 370?
A. As a Speaker I must conduct proper and fair discussion over any issue, or any bill. If a member raises any question afterward, it’s their fundamental right to do so, and they can enjoy it. My duties are limited in the house.