TDP slams Congress over ‘unethical’ AP bifurcation in no-confidence motion debate

Vijayawada: The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) turned the tables on the Congress during the discussion on the no-confidence motion against Om Birla, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, by referring to the "unethical" bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh when the doors of Parliament were closed to pass the Bill.Participating in the debate, Narasaraopet MP Lavu Sri Krishnadevarayalu said the opposition parties moved the no-confidence motion only to divert public attention and create a chaotic atmosphere in Parliament.He said the functioning style of Om Birla as speaker was observed for several years and that he conducted the House in a smooth and dignified manner. Several landmark legislations that shaped the country, including the Women's Reservation Bill and the Triple Talaq Bill, were passed during his tenure with broad support. Birla ensured discipline in the functioning of the house and made efforts to give adequate time for all members to speak, he said.Krishnadevarayalu noted that even during the difficult period of the Covid-19 pandemic, the speaker took the initiative to ensure that the parliament functioned smoothly while maintaining necessary precautions. He said the 17th Lok Sabha achieving around 97 per cent productivity stood as proof of Birla's efficiency and leadership.Questioning the opposition's move, the MP said the govt was ready to discuss the issue but alleged that opposition members were creating disruptions both inside and outside the House merely to generate confusion and disorder. "People are closely watching such behaviour. It appears the opposition is acting out of frustration after electoral defeats," he remarked.Krishnadevarayalu recalled that a "black day" in parliamentary history occurred during the tenure of the Congress when Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated. Despite opposition from the then state assembly, the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Bill was passed in the parliament after closing all the doors of the Lok Sabha and suspending the live telecast for several hours, he alleged.He said it was ironic that the Congress was now speaking about constitutional values and the conduct of the Speaker. The MP demanded that Feb 14, 2014 be declared a black day and called for a discussion in the parliament on the issue, asking the Congress to explain its actions during the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh.