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.
