Historic Nomination for Lok Sabha Speaker Position Sparks First-Ever Election in India’s Parliament

The Congress-led INDIA opposition bloc has nominated the long-standing eight-time Congress MP from Kerala, Kodikunnil Suresh, for the Lok Sabha Speaker position, marking a historic move in India’s parliamentary history.

This decision sets the stage for the first-ever election for the Lok Sabha Speaker post since India’s independence, adding a new dimension to the political landscape.

Kodikunnil Suresh, a prominent Dalit leader hailing from Kerala and currently serving his eighth term, was initially considered for the Deputy Speaker role until failed negotiations between the opposition and the ruling government brought about his candidacy for the top Speaker position.

Janata Dal (United) leader, Lalan Singh, confirmed the nomination of Om Birla as the NDA consensus candidate for the Speaker role in the upcoming election.

Suresh’s candidacy shines a spotlight on the ongoing tension between the INDIA bloc and the ruling BJP coalition, as efforts to reach a consensus over re-appointing Om Birla as Speaker fell through.

As the deadline for filing nominations loomed, all parties were required to submit their notices to the pro-tem Speaker by noon, with the election set to take place on June 26.

Previously, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi asserted the Opposition’s willingness to support the NDA’s Speaker candidate on the condition that the INDIA bloc secured the Deputy Speaker post, a move that did not materialize.

Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Modi’s request for cooperation, citing the unfulfilled promises made by leaders such as Rajnath Singh and the subsequent disregard for their leader, Mallikarjun Kharge.

Furthermore, Suresh questioned the appointment of Bhartruhari Mahtab as the pro-tem Speaker, arguing that this deviated from the traditional practices of the House.