New Delhi: Rahul Gandhi, in his maiden address as Leader of Opposition in the 18th Lok Sabha, extended his congratulations to BJP's Om Birla for his re-election as Lok Sabha Speaker. Clad in a white kurta pyjama, Gandhi emphasized the crucial role of the Speaker as the ultimate representative of the people's voice in Parliament.

"I extend my congratulations to you on your successful re-election. On behalf of the entire Opposition and the INDIA alliance, I commend you," Gandhi said, addressing Om Birla during the session.

Highlighting the significance of the Opposition's role, Gandhi noted, "This House embodies the voice of the Indian people, and you are the final adjudicator of that voice. While the government holds political power, the Opposition equally represents the diverse voices of India, more so in this term than the previous one."

Gandhi reassured Birla of the Opposition's cooperation in the smooth functioning of the House. "We stand ready to support your efforts. It is crucial that the House functions effectively, based on mutual trust. Allowing the Opposition's voice to be heard is essential," he affirmed.

"We trust that by upholding the right of the Opposition to speak and represent the people of India, you will fulfill your duty of upholding the Constitution of India," Gandhi added.

Om Birla, nominated by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and Member of Parliament from Kota, was elected as the Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha through a voice vote after the motion was proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and seconded by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

In a show of unity, Rahul Gandhi and other members escorted Om Birla to the Speaker's chair, extending their best wishes for his tenure. The Opposition, led by Gandhi, did not press for a division vote after proposing K Suresh as the candidate from the INDIA bloc for Speaker.

The session resonated with affirmations ('Ayes') as Om Birla assumed his role as Speaker, reaffirming the democratic processes of the Indian Parliament.

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