India, March 11 -- A fresh political confrontation unfolded in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday after Opposition parties moved a no-confidence motion against Speaker Om Birla, triggering sharp exchanges between the treasury and Opposition benches.

Opposition members said the motion was aimed at ensuring that the Speaker conducts House proceedings "fairly" and without "pressure" from the Government. The ruling NDA strongly defended Birla, asserting that he had been impartial and treated both sides equally. The debate will continue on Wednesday, with a reply expected from Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the evening. The House took up the Opposition resolution seeking Birla's removal over alleged bias towards the ruling party, amid a heated debate...