PM Modi and Rahul Gandhi Welcome New Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi shook hands in Parliament today. They came together to welcome the new Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla. This event marks the beginning of a new chapter in the 18th Lok Sabha.

Rahul Gandhi as Leader of the Opposition

Rahul Gandhi is set to become the Leader of the Opposition. He is the third member of the Gandhi family to hold this important position. His mother, Sonia Gandhi, served as the Leader of the Opposition from 1999 to 2004, and his father, Rajiv Gandhi, held the post from 1989 to 1990.

History of the Leader of the Opposition

The role of the Leader of the Opposition in India started in 1969 with Ram Suhag Singh. Over time, this role has become a key part of India's parliamentary democracy. The Leader of the Opposition is involved in the appointment of important officials such as the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), the Central Vigilance Commissioner (CVC), and members of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), and the Lokayukta.

Election of Om Birla as Lok Sabha Speaker

Pro-tem Speaker Bhartruhari Mahtab announced the election results. The Opposition had nominated Congress MP K Suresh but decided not to push for a vote. After the announcement, Prime Minister Modi, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, and Rahul Gandhi approached Om Birla to escort him to the Speaker's chair.

Congratulatory Messages

Prime Minister Modi congratulated Om Birla, saying, "It is a matter of honour that you have been elected to this chair for the second time. I congratulate you on behalf of the entire House and look forward to your guidance for the next five years. Your sweet smile keeps the entire House happy."

Rahul Gandhi also congratulated the entire opposition and the INDIA alliance, saying, "I would like to congratulate you on behalf of the entire opposition. You are the final arbiter of the people's voice. The government may have political power, but the Opposition also represents the people's voice. The Opposition would like to assist you in your work. I am confident you will allow us to speak in the House."