

Om Birla, a three-time MP from Rajasthan's Kota-Bundi, has filed his nomination for the Lok Sabha Speaker's post after being announced as the NDA's official candidate. If elected, Birla will become the first BJP leader to serve as Speaker for two consecutive terms. This decision has been met with a consensus among the opposition parties, with Congress MP K Suresh being announced as their candidate for the same. With Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar also hailing from Rajasthan, the state will hold the top posts in both Houses of the Parliament.
Om Birla Re-elected as Lok Sabha Speaker
Om Birla, a veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader from Rajasthan, has been re-elected as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha for a second consecutive term. Birla's nomination was unanimously endorsed by the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and received consensus support from opposition parties.
Background:
Om Birla, 58, is a three-time Member of Parliament (MP) from Kota-Bundi in Rajasthan. He is known for his administrative abilities and has held various positions in the BJP, including the Rajasthan unit president. Birla was first elected as Lok Sabha Speaker in 2019, becoming the second BJP leader to hold the post after Manohar Joshi.
Election Process:
The election for Lok Sabha Speaker is held at the start of every new parliamentary session. Candidates must file their nominations with the Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha. If multiple candidates contest, a secret ballot is held among the members of the House.
Birla's Second Term:
Birla's re-election marks a significant milestone for the BJP, as he becomes the first leader from the party to serve as Speaker for two consecutive terms. His election also reflects the support and confidence he has garnered from both the ruling and opposition parties.
FAQs:
1. What is the role of the Lok Sabha Speaker? The Speaker presides over the proceedings of the Lok Sabha, ensures the smooth functioning of the House, and maintains order and decorum. They play a crucial role in interpreting parliamentary rules and procedures.
2. Who is the first woman to serve as Lok Sabha Speaker? Meira Kumar, a Congress MP from Bihar, was the first woman to serve as Lok Sabha Speaker, holding the post from 2009 to 2014.
3. What are the qualifications to be Lok Sabha Speaker? The candidate must be a member of the Lok Sabha, have legal knowledge or experience, and possess administrative capabilities.
4. How long does the Lok Sabha Speaker serve? The term of the Lok Sabha Speaker runs for five years or until the dissolution of the Lok Sabha, whichever is earlier.
5. What happens if the Speaker's post is vacant? In the event of a vacancy in the Speaker's post, the Deputy Speaker assumes the role until a new Speaker is elected.

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