Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha

April 30, 2025

The role of the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha is crucial in the Indian parliamentary system. Established under Article 93 of the Constitution, this position is essential for maintaining the continuity and stability of legislative proceedings. However, there has been a concerning neglect of this office in recent years, leading to constitutional implications.

Constitutional Provisions

Article 93: Lok Sabha must elect both a Speaker and Deputy Speaker as early as possible.
Article 95(1): If the Speaker’s post is vacant, the Deputy Speaker performs their duties.
When the Deputy Speaker presides, they have the same powers as the Speaker.
Article 178: Similar provision for State Legislative Assemblies.
Rules of Lok Sabha treat references to “Speaker” as including the “Deputy Speaker” when applicable.

Constitution does not give a specific time frame to elect a Deputy Speaker, allowing delays.
Use of “shall” and “as soon as may be” in Articles 93 & 178 implies it’s mandatory and should be done early.

Election

Rule 8 of Lok Sabha Rules governs the election.
Elected by a simple majority of members present and voting.
Usually elected in the second session, but can be done in the first session too.
Holds office until the Lok Sabha is dissolved.

Vacancy, Resignation & Removal

As per Article 94 (and 179 for states):
- Deputy Speaker vacates office if they are no longer a Member of Parliament.
- Can resign or be removed by a resolution passed by an absolute majority of the House.

Deputy Speaker as Acting Speaker

1956: After Speaker G V Mavalankar’s death, Deputy Speaker M Ananthasayanam Ayyangar became acting Speaker and was later elected Speaker of the 2nd Lok Sabha.
2002: After Speaker G M C Balayogi died, Deputy Speaker P M Sayeed served as acting Speaker for 2 months until Manohar Joshi was elected.

Historical Context

The Deputy Speaker’s position dates back to the colonial era, originating in the Central Legislative Assembly. The first Deputy Speaker was Sachidanand Sinha in 1921. This role became an institutional fixture by the time India gained independence in 1947. The first elected Deputy Speaker post-independence was M.A. Ayyangar, denoting the importance of this position during legislative crises.

Role and Responsibilities

The Deputy Speaker acts as important support to the Speaker. They preside over sessions when the Speaker is unavailable, ensuring proceedings continue smoothly. The Deputy Speaker can also chair sessions and oversee committees. Importantly, they are expected to remain impartial, encouraging a non-partisan environment in the House.

Constitutional Vacuum

Despite its importance, the Deputy Speaker’s office has been vacant for the entirety of the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024) and remains unfilled in the 18th Lok Sabha. This unprecedented situation raises questions about adherence to constitutional mandates. The absence of a Deputy Speaker centralises power within the Speaker and the ruling party, undermining necessary checks and balances.

Implications of Delay

The ongoing vacancy in the Deputy Speaker’s position poses risks to parliamentary stability. In emergencies, such as the Speaker’s resignation, the lack of a second-in-command could lead to confusion. Moreover, failing to fill this post signals a disregard for parliamentary conventions, particularly the tradition of offering the position to the Opposition, which encourages inclusivity.

Need for Legislative Reform

The current situation raises the question of whether constitutional language should be revised to impose a mandatory timeline for electing a Deputy Speaker. A specific deadline could ensure compliance and prevent future delays. Alternatively, a statutory mechanism could empower the President to initiate the election process within a defined timeframe.

Upholding Democratic Integrity

The Deputy Speaker’s role is foundational to the integrity of legislative functioning. Ignoring this position undermines the spirit of democratic balance and adherence to constitutional norms. It is vital for Parliament to reaffirm its commitment to rule-based governance and restore the Deputy Speaker’s position promptly.

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