New Delhi, 09 February (H.S.): Congress women MPs penned a scathing letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday, directly charging him with operating under ruling party pressure and undermining their dignity.

The missive spotlighted the suspension of eight INDIA alliance MPs at BJP's behest, contrasted with leniency toward a BJP MP's vulgar remarks on former prime ministers, questioning Birla's impartiality.

It detailed an initial meeting where MPs demanded justice and BJP MP suspension; Birla acknowledged the grave error, scheduling a 4 PM follow-up, only to later cite awaiting government response—eroding his independent authority.

At 5 PM, defying tradition, PM's address was scheduled; INDIA MPs' peaceful democratic protest ensued amid his absence. Birla's subsequent statement—allegedly under BJP pressure—leveled serious accusations against Congress women MPs, despite their steadfast non-violent stance.

From humble origins as first-generation politicians forged through decades of grassroots toil, discrimination, and opposition, the MPs decried assaults on their integrity as blows to every woman carving public space with dignity and courage.

They asserted targeting stems from relentless fight against PM Modi's anti-people government and demands for answerability; PM's no-show reflected fear, not threats—cowardice in facing opposition.

While affirming respect for Birla's office, the letter urged resuming role as impartial guardian, pledging full support: transparency alone restores Speaker's dignity and House credibility.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar