Deputy Speaker
Context: The position of the Deputy Speaker has been lying vacant for the last six years raising questions on constitutional adherence and democratic resilience.
Important Pointers:
Constitutional Provisions:
Article 93: Mandates that the Lok Sabha (House of the People) shall, as soon as may be, elect both a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker.
Article 94: Provides for the vacation, resignation, and removal of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
Article 95(1): States that the Deputy Speaker performs the duties of the Speaker when the latter is absent or the office is vacant.
Article 178: Corresponding provision for Speakers and Deputy Speakers of State Legislative Assemblies.
Article 180: Empowers the Deputy Speaker to act as Speaker of a State Legislative Assembly when the Speaker’s office is vacant.
Election Process:
Elected by a simple majority of Lok Sabha members present and voting.
Governing Rule: Election conducted under the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha (1952).
Who Fixes Election Date: The Speaker of Lok Sabha.
Oath Requirement: No separate oath is needed; MP's (Member of Parliament) general oath under the Third Schedule of the Constitution is sufficient.
Convention: Post often given to the Opposition party to ensure democratic balance — though not legally mandated.
Tenure & Removal:
Tenure: Holds office during the life of the Lok Sabha, unless:
Ceases to be a member;
Resigns by writing to the Speaker;
Removed by an absolute majority (majority of total members of Lok Sabha) after 14 days' notice.
Vacancy: Lok Sabha must elect a new Deputy Speaker if the position becomes vacant.
Historical Background:
British Era: The post began as Deputy President of the Central Legislative Assembly under British rule; Sachidanand Sinha was the first (1921).
Post-Independence: M. Ananthasayanam Ayyangar was the first elected Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha after independence.
Legacy Role: Ayyangar later served as Acting Speaker in 1956 and was subsequently elected Speaker.