Three-time BJP lawmaker Om Birla was elected Lok Sabha Speaker for the second time on Wednesday.

Despite nominating Congress lawmaker K Suresh as an opposition candidate, the Congress-led India alliance did not press for a vote.

In a rare moment of unity, Rahul Gandhi congratulated Birla and shook hands with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Rahul has been nominated as the opposition leader, a position Congress didn't hold in the previous two Lok Sabhas due to insufficient seats.

In the 2024 Lok Sabha, Congress secured 98 seats, surpassing the 10% requirement for opposition leader status.

As the House applauded Birla, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju escorted him to the Speaker's chair.

"The Opposition must be allowed to speak, as they too represent the voice of the people."

- Rahul Gandhi

Congratulating Birla, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "His (Birla) sweet smile keeps the entire House happy."

"It is a matter of honour that you have been elected to this chair for the second time," he added.

Urging Om Birla to let the opposition speak, Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi said, "We would like the house to function often and well."

"The Opposition must be allowed to speak, as they too represent the voice of the people," he added. 

The government had reached out for consensus, and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge indicated support for Birla if the Deputy Speaker was from the Opposition. Despite the contest, Birla had the backing of 297 lawmakers against 232 for Suresh.