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Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha

Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha:

The 18th Lok Sabha, like the 17th, has not yet elected a Deputy Speaker, raising concerns about constitutional compliance and parliamentary conventions.

  • Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha Governed by Article 93 of the Constitution: mandates the House to elect a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker “as soon as may be”.
  • Elected by: Lok Sabha members from among themselves.
  • Timing: After the Speaker’s election, the date is fixed by the Speaker.
  • Convention: Deputy Speaker is usually from the Opposition, though not legally mandated.
  • Powers and Functions:
    • Presiding Role: Acts as Speaker when the latter is absent.
    • Casting Vote: Exercises casting vote only in case of a tie when presiding.
    • Committee Chairmanship: Automatically becomes chairperson of any parliamentary committee if appointed.
    • Independence: Is not subordinate to the Speaker but directly responsible to the Lok Sabha.