Kiren Rijiju Backs Speaker Amid No-Confidence Motion, Calls Rahul Gandhi ‘Threat to National Security’

New Delhi, Feb 18 : Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has strongly backed Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla amid a no confidence motion moved against him, alleging that sections of the Opposition  particularly the Congress and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi  have repeatedly disrupted parliamentary functioning.

Speaking in an interview with ANI, Rijiju framed the ongoing confrontation as a broader issue concerning parliamentary discipline and political accountability. Tensions have remained high in the House, with the Opposition pressing the government on multiple issues while the ruling side accuses it of obstruction and theatrics.

Support for the Speaker

Rijiju said the Speaker’s constitutional responsibility is to ensure smooth proceedings, facilitate government business, and provide adequate opportunity for Opposition members to speak. Referring to a recent protest inside the Speaker’s chamber, he remarked that Birla had shown restraint.

Drawing a comparison with former Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee, Rijiju suggested that stricter action might have been taken under different leadership. He further alleged that frequent disruptions  including slogan shouting, display of banners, and throwing of papers   were largely driven by the Congress.

According to him, such conduct deprives smaller Opposition parties of the opportunity to raise constituency concerns in the House.

Criticism of Rahul Gandhi

In pointed remarks directed at Rahul Gandhi, Rijiju described the Congress leader’s conduct as “irresponsible” for someone holding the position of Leader of Opposition. He questioned certain protest methods and public statements made outside Parliament.

Rijiju also accused Gandhi of associating with individuals and groups he described as hostile to India’s interests. On allegations linked to the so-called “Epstein Files,” he said claims involving the Prime Minister should be supported by evidence rather than rhetoric.

Response to Congress Leadership and Trade Concerns

Reacting to comments by senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar, Rijiju said the party had earlier been led by figures known for measured public discourse. He argued that the Congress’s continued electoral setbacks raise internal leadership questions.

Addressing concerns over the India-US trade deal, Rijiju maintained that national interests including those of farmers, workers, and small industries  had been safeguarded. He said Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal had provided detailed clarifications and emphasised that India’s economic engagements are aligned with long-term growth.

On Parliamentary Conduct

While acknowledging that protest and disagreement are part of democratic functioning, Rijiju distinguished between political dissent and what he termed disorderly behaviour. He stated that while robust debate is expected in Parliament, decorum must be preserved to ensure meaningful discussion.

The no-confidence motion against the Speaker has further intensified political exchanges, highlighting deep divisions between the Treasury and Opposition benches.