Bhartruhari Mahtab, a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from Odisha and a seven-time Member of Parliament from Cuttack, has been appointed as the Pro Tem Speaker for the upcoming 18th Parliament session.
The appointment was made by President Droupadi Murmu, traditionally bestowed upon the seniormost member of parliament to administer oaths until a permanent Speaker is elected.
Bhartruhari Mahtab’s appointment has sparked speculation regarding the Speaker’s post, which remains undecided despite deliberations involving leaders from Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. The BJP’s recent electoral victories in these states have amplified the need to reward local leadership, adding complexity to the selection process.
Having switched allegiance from Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata Dal to the BJP before the elections, the political journey of Bhartruhari Mahtab underscores his significance within the party ranks.
His temporary role as Pro Tem Speaker positions him at the forefront of parliamentary proceedings, setting the stage for potential elevation to the Speaker’s position, a decision awaited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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“The BJP leadership is deliberating over the Speaker’s appointment, considering various factors including alliances and regional dynamics,” revealed party insiders familiar with the discussions. Despite extended talks over consecutive days, consensus remains elusive, with Modi expected to make a decisive announcement before the parliament convenes.
Meanwhile, anticipation mounts over the Deputy Speaker’s selection, traditionally allocated to the opposition as a matter of parliamentary convention. Opposition leaders have hinted at potential challenges if this tradition is overlooked, raising prospects of an unprecedented election for the Speaker’s post.
The Speaker plays a pivotal role in parliamentary proceedings, facilitating dialogue between the government and opposition, and their appointment traditionally hinges on consensus across party lines.
For further updates on parliamentary developments and political maneuvers, stay tuned to our coverage as the 18th Parliament session unfolds.
