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According to Article 93 of the Indian Constitution, βThe House of the People shall, as soon as may be, choose two members to be Speaker and Deputy Speaker.β Similarly, Article 94 outlines the conditions under which these posts fall vacant.
The phrasing βas soon as may beβ suggests urgency but does not provide a strict timeline, leading to interpretative flexibility. However, constitutional propriety demands that these posts should not remain vacant for extended periods.
Importance of the Deputy Speaker
The Deputy Speaker is not merely a backup to the Speaker; rather, they are an institution in themselves, ensuring continuity, fairness, and impartiality in parliamentary proceedings. Traditionally, the position has been offered to a member of the opposition, symbolising bipartisan cooperation and promoting a healthier legislative environment.
Current Scenario: Vacancy Since 2019
Despite the crucial role, the Deputy Speakerβs post has been vacant since the commencement of the 17th Lok Sabha in 2019. This prolonged vacancy is increasingly seen as a constitutional anomaly.
A report by The Hindu highlights that such neglect erodes parliamentary conventions and undermines the institutional balance carefully envisaged by the framers of our Constitution. Constitutional experts suggest that the continued absence of a deputy speaker dilutes the independence of the legislative wing, skewing the checks and balances system.
Read the detailed article on New Indian Express here 
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Expert Opinions on the Vacancy
Leading constitutionalists have called for:
- A timeline mandate to fill the Deputy Speakerβs post.
- Amendments or guidelines ensuring stricter adherence to constitutional practices.
- Greater transparency and public accountability regarding parliamentary vacancies.
The erosion of parliamentary conventions is a worrying trend, making it critical to address this vacancy promptly to restore faith in the democratic process.
Read Also: Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court
Points to Remember
- Article 93 and 94 govern the appointment and functions of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker.
- The Deputy Speaker ensures continuity and stability in the Speakerβs absence.
- Vacancy since 2019 highlights erosion of parliamentary norms.
- Traditionally, the Deputy Speaker post is given to the opposition party.
- Experts suggest establishing a timeline for filling the deputy speakerβs position.
Conclusion
The prolonged Deputy Speaker vacancy is not just an administrative lapse; it reflects a deeper malaise within the functioning of Indiaβs democratic institutions. Upholding constitutional norms is crucial for the vibrancy and resilience of any democracy, and filling this vacancy should be a priority for the current government.
