Lok Sabha Speaker poll: Om Birla vs K Suresh; key points

India's Parliament will witness a rare election today in its storied history, as the rejuvented Opposition has been trying to make its presence felt. However, the BJP-led NDA government clearly holds an advantage when it comes to numbers.

The contenders:
It is a contest between BJP's Om Birla, a three-time MP from Kota, Rajasthan, and the previous Lok Sabha Speaker, against Congress' K Suresh, an eight-term MP from Mavelikara, Kerala. Birla's selection reinforces the message of continuity by the BJP.

How the speaker is selected:
The Speaker is elected by a simple majority based on the number of present and voting MPs. Seven MPs, including five from the Opposition and two Independents, cannot vote as they haven't taken oath yet, according to sources.


Also read: NDA’s Om Birla and INDIA’s K Suresh in the fray for key Parliament post

The number game:
The NDA, with 293 MPs, holds a majority compared to the Opposition's 232 seats. Additionally, it is expected to have support from YS Jaganmohan Reddy's YSR Congress with its four MPs.

Also Read: Why the INDIA bloc is forcing a contest, what it means

Who said what?
Congress's Rahul Gandhi said, "Rajnath Singh called Mallikarjun Kharge and asked him to extend support... entire Opposition said we will support but convention is Deputy Speaker should be from our side. Rajnath Singh said he would call back... but he has not yet...PM is asking for cooperation but our leader is getting insulted."

Meanwhile, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has issued a last appeal for a consensus candidate. "For the last two days, we have been in contact with main Opposition parties, talked to their floor leaders regarding the post of Speaker... We want the Speaker to be elected unopposed and through consensus," he said.

Meetings and consensus
Tuesday evening saw parallel meetings: Amit Shah met NDA allies, while the Opposition bloc gathered at Mallikarjun Kharge's residence. Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress signaled disapproval of the contested election and will announce support for K Suresh by 9 am.