A no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is likely to be taken up on March 9, 2026. This development follows a period of heightened tensions and disruptions in the Lower House. The opposition parties, led by the Congress, submitted the motion, citing concerns over the Speaker's alleged partisan conduct during the ongoing Budget Session.

The motion was submitted to the Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, by Congress leaders K Suresh and Mohammad Javed. According to sources, the no-confidence motion has been signed by approximately 120 Members of Parliament (MPs). However, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), another key opposition party, has reportedly opted out of supporting the motion.

The primary reason cited by the opposition for the no-confidence motion is the alleged "blatantly partisan manner" in which Om Birla has been conducting the business of the Lok Sabha. They claim that opposition leaders have been repeatedly denied the opportunity to speak, which they argue is a violation of their democratic rights. Specifically, the opposition has criticized Birla for not allowing Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition, to speak on several occasions, including during the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address. Rahul Gandhi was reportedly prevented from referencing an "unpublished memoir" by former Army Chief General MM Naravane regarding the 2020 standoff with China.

The opposition has also raised concerns about the Speaker's decision to allow BJP MP Nishikant Dubey to read from books containing material that targeted the Congress party and the Gandhi family. They contrast this with the Speaker's refusal to allow Rahul Gandhi to speak and question the lack of action against Dubey. Further grievances include the suspension of eight opposition MPs.

In response to the no-confidence motion, Om Birla has decided to abstain from presiding over Lok Sabha proceedings until the matter is resolved. This decision is a notable departure from convention, as there isn't a specific rule mandating the Speaker's removal during the motion's pendency.

The procedure for a no-confidence motion against the Speaker is outlined in Article 94(c) of the Indian Constitution. The motion must be supported by a majority of all the then members of the House. To initiate the process, a written notice must be submitted to the Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha at least 14 days before the motion is moved. The motion must be backed by a minimum of 50 MPs for it to be admitted. Once admitted, the motion is debated and voted upon in the House. If the motion is passed, the Speaker is removed from office.

The BJP has criticized the opposition's move, with party spokesperson Sambit Patra suggesting that the opposition is trying to delegitimize constitutional posts.

The outcome of the no-confidence motion remains uncertain. While the opposition has garnered the support of over 100 MPs, the ruling party holds a significant majority in the Lok Sabha. The debate and vote on March 9 will be closely watched, as it will reflect the state of political relations and the functioning of parliamentary democracy in India.