Description

The position of the Deputy Speaker in the Lok Sabha is a key component of India’s parliamentary framework, created to ensure the seamless functioning of legislative proceedings. Enshrined under Article 93 of the Constitution, this role acts as a crucial support system to the Speaker. However, recent years have seen a prolonged vacancy in this post, raising constitutional and democratic concerns.

Constitutional Framework

• Article 93 of the Indian Constitution mandates that the Lok Sabha must elect both a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker at the earliest possible opportunity.

• Article 95(1) empowers the Deputy Speaker to perform the Speaker’s duties in their absence or when the post falls vacant.

• The Deputy Speaker, while presiding, wields the same authority as the Speaker.

• Article 178 provides similar guidelines for State Legislative Assemblies.

• The Rules of Procedure of the Lok Sabha state that references to “Speaker” can be interpreted as including the “Deputy Speaker” when applicable.

• While the Constitution uses the phrases “shall” and “as soon as may be,” which imply urgency, no fixed deadline is stipulated for electing the Deputy Speaker, allowing flexibility that has led to extended delays.

Election Procedure

• The election of the Deputy Speaker is governed by Rule 8 of the Lok Sabha Rules.

• It is typically held during the second session, but can occur in the first session as well.

• The candidate is elected by a simple majority of members present and voting.

• The Deputy Speaker remains in office until the Lok Sabha is dissolved.

Vacancy, Resignation, And Removal

• According to Article 94 (and Article 179 for states), the Deputy Speaker’s office becomes vacant if they cease to be a Member of Parliament.

• The Deputy Speaker may also resign or be removed through a resolution passed by an absolute majority of the House.

Deputy Speaker As Acting Speaker: Historical Instances

• In 1956, after the death of Speaker G.V. Mavalankar, Deputy Speaker M. Ananthasayanam Ayyangar took over as acting Speaker and was later formally elected as Speaker.

• In 2002, after Speaker G.M.C. Balayogi’s death, Deputy Speaker P.M. Sayeed served as acting Speaker until Manohar Joshi assumed the role.

Historical Evolution Of Office

The Deputy Speaker’s role has its roots in the colonial Central Legislative Assembly, with Sachidanand Sinha serving as the first Deputy Speaker in 1921. Post-independence, M.A. Ayyangar was the first to be elected to the role in a free India, underlining the position’s institutional importance.

Functions And Duties

The Deputy Speaker serves as the principal backup to the Speaker, presiding over sessions in their absence and ensuring the House operates smoothly. They also chair select committees and play a non-partisan role, crucial to maintaining order and fairness during parliamentary debates.

Present Constitutional Void

Despite its significance, the office has remained vacant throughout the 17th Lok Sabha (2019–2024) and continues to be unfilled in the 18th Lok Sabha. This prolonged inaction undermines the constitutional intent and concentrates authority solely in the Speaker’s office, potentially disrupting the system of internal checks and balances.

Consequences Of Delay

Failing to appoint a Deputy Speaker creates administrative vulnerabilities, particularly during emergencies like the resignation or incapacitation of the Speaker. It also disregards parliamentary customs, such as offering the role to an Opposition member—a gesture that promotes inclusivity and bipartisan cooperation.

The Case For Reform

To address this recurring issue, legal reforms could be introduced. One approach is to amend constitutional provisions to set a definite deadline for electing a Deputy Speaker. Alternatively, a statutory framework could allow the President to trigger the election process if it remains pending beyond a reasonable period.

Conclusion

The Deputy Speaker’s office is fundamental to ensuring impartiality, continuity, and constitutional propriety in Parliament. Its continued vacancy not only undermines democratic ethos but also weakens institutional accountability. Timely appointment and adherence to parliamentary traditions are essential to uphold India’s democratic values and legislative integrity.

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