Bhartruhari Mahtab, a prominent leader of the BJP from Odisha and a seven-time MP, has been appointed as the Pro Tem Speaker for the 18th parliament session.
· This appointment, traditionally for the most senior parliamentarian, sparks controversy, especially in Congress, calling it a ‘mistake’ by the Parliamentary Affairs minister.
· Formerly aligned with Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata Dal, he shifted allegiance to the BJP prior to the elections, citing dissatisfaction with his former party’s policies.
· The Congress had anticipated the appointment of its senior MP K Suresh to the Pro Tem Speaker’s post, making Mahtab’s selection a sore point.
· The uncertainty surrounding the Speakership persists, with names like D Purandeshwari of the BJP’s Andhra Pradesh unit also in contention.
· The appointment of Mahtab as Pro Tem Speaker hints at potential confrontations ahead, particularly regarding the Deputy Speaker’s position traditionally held by the Opposition.
Bhartruhari Mahtab, a prominent leader of the BJP from Odisha and a seven-time MP, has been appointed as the Pro Tem Speaker by President Droupadi Murmu for the 18th parliament session commencing this Monday. This appointment, traditionally given to the senior most parliamentarian, has sparked controversy, particularly within the Congress party, which has labelled it a “mistake” by the Parliamentary Affairs minister.
Mahtab’s journey to this role has not been without its twists. Formerly aligned with Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata Dal, he shifted allegiance to the BJP prior to the elections, citing dissatisfaction with his former party’s policies. His elevation to Pro Tem Speaker comes amidst speculation over who will ultimately assume the role of Speaker, a position that holds significant parliamentary responsibilities.
The Congress had anticipated the appointment of its senior MP K Suresh to the Pro Tem Speaker’s post, making Mahtab’s selection a sore point. Senior Congress leader Manickam Tagore criticized the decision, characterizing it as the “first mistake” of the Parliamentary Affairs minister. The appointment underscores the BJP’s strategic considerations, especially in states like Odisha and Andhra Pradesh where the party has secured substantial electoral victories and seeks to reward key leaders.
The uncertainty surrounding the Speakership persists, with names like D Purandeshwari of the BJP’s Andhra Pradesh unit also in contention. Despite prolonged discussions, the BJP appears hesitant to yield the position to its allies like Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to resolve the impasse before the parliament convenes.
The appointment of Mahtab as Pro Tem Speaker hints at potential confrontations ahead, particularly regarding the Deputy Speaker’s position traditionally held by the Opposition. Opposition leaders have hinted at the possibility of contesting the Speaker’s election if their preferences are overlooked—a move that could set a precedent.
As the parliamentary session approaches, all eyes are on the BJP’s leadership to navigate these delicate political waters and ensure smooth proceedings in the House. The role of the Speaker, crucial for maintaining order and dialogue between the government and the Opposition, remains a pivotal decision awaiting consensus.
In summary, Mahtab’s appointment sets the stage for a parliamentary session likely to be marked by political maneuvering and strategic alliances, underscoring the BJP’s evolving political calculus as it consolidates power in key states.
(With inputs from agencies)
