Post of Deputy Speaker

Source– This post on Post of Deputy Speaker has been created based on the article “Post of Deputy Speaker” published in “Indian Express” on 26 June 2024.

Why in the news?

With the Opposition’s increased strength in Lok Sabha, its members hope to secure the Deputy Speaker post. The 17th Lok Sabha (2019-24) did not have a Deputy Speaker throughout its entire duration.

About Constitutional Provisions Regarding Deputy Speaker

1. Article 93: The House of the People (Lok Sabha) is required to elect two members as Speaker and Deputy Speaker whenever these offices become vacant. The article does not specify a time frame for this election.

2. Article 178: This article provides the corresponding requirement for the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of a state’s Legislative Assembly.

Election of Deputy Speaker

1. Rule 8 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha: The election of the Deputy Speaker is held on a date fixed by the Speaker.

2. The Deputy Speaker is elected once a motion proposing their name is passed in the House. Typically, the Deputy Speaker serves for the entire duration of the House.

Position of Deputy Speaker

Article 95: The Deputy Speaker performs the duties of the Speaker when the office is vacant and acts as the Speaker when the latter is absent from House sittings. In both scenarios, the Deputy Speaker assumes all powers of the Speaker.

Responsibilities and Functions

1. Acting as Speaker: He/she performs all duties and exercises all powers of the Speaker when the latter is absent or when the position is vacant.

2. Independence from Speaker: He/she is not subordinate to the Speaker and is directly responsible to the House. Both the Speaker and Deputy Speaker must submit their resignations to the House.

3. Maintaining Order: He/she helps in maintaining order and decorum in the House during debates and proceedings ensuring the rules of the House are followed.

4. Committees: He/she often presides over various parliamentary committees, facilitating their functioning and ensuring they operate within the rules.

5. Decision-Making: He/she makes decisions on procedural issues and interpretations of rules in the House, similar to the role of the Speaker.

6. Representative Role: In the absence of the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker represents the House in ceremonial functions and official events.

UPSC Syllabus: Polity and nation