New LS speaker asks Opposition not to worry about numbers

Echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's views, newly elected speaker of teh Lok Sabha Om Birla said the numbers of the Opposition will be irrelevant as all MPs will get equal opportunities to represent and put forward the grievances of their constituencies.

New Delhi: Newly elected speaker of the 17th Lok Sabha Om Birla on Wednesday asserted that he would work in a non-partisan manner and uphold the dignity of the Constitutional post.

Speaking exclusively to ETV Bharat, Birla said that he would work towards ensuring that MPs from all parties get equal opportuinities to put forward their issues. He added that the numbers of the Opposition will be irrelevant as each MP will be representing his constituency.

Pertinently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier in the day said, "The opposition need not bother about their numbers. I hope they speak actively and participate in House proceedings," Modi said.

Earlier today, Rajasthan MP Om Birla was chosen as speaker of the Lok Sabha. He was accorded a warm welcome by his family and other supporters.

The motion to choose Birla as the speaker was moved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is also Leader of the House, and passed by a voice vote.

Birla, who won his first Lok Sabha election in 2014, was again elected this year from Rajasthan's Kota-Bundi seat.

Read: Celebrations at Birla's house after NDA nominates him for LS Speaker's post