Why is the Deputy Speaker’s post vacant in the 18th Lok Sabha?

Why Deputy Speaker Matters Now
The ongoing vacancy in the Deputy Speaker’s office has sparked a constitutional debate. Historically, this post was held by the opposition – but the 17th and 18th Lok Sabhas haven’t elected one. With UPSC’s focus on parliamentary offices (a 2024 prelims question tested Speaker knowledge), understanding this role is crucial.

Key Constitutional Provisions:
Mandatory Election (Article 93): The Lok Sabha must elect a Speaker and Deputy Speaker “as soon as may be”. Though no strict deadline exists, “shall” implies urgency.
Powers (Article 95): The Deputy Speaker steps in when the Speaker’s post is vacant and wields equal authority while presiding.
Removal (Article 94): Requires resignation (to Speaker) or removal by majority of all LS members – a higher threshold than ordinary bills.

Election Process & Conventions:
Elected by simple majority vote among Lok Sabha members.
Traditionally chosen from the principal opposition party.
Rule 8 (Lok Sabha Rules) mandates the Speaker to fix the election date.

Critical Backup Systems:
Panel of Chairpersons (Rule 9): The Speaker nominates up to 10 MPs to preside if both Speaker and Deputy Speaker are absent.
State Assemblies (Article 178): Mirror the LS framework – Speakers/Deputy Speakers are mandatory for state legislatures too.
Rajya Sabha’s Deputy Chairman (Article 89): Elected solely by RS members, ensures House functionality when Vice-President (Chairman) is absent.
Why This Vacancy Matters for UPSC:
Tests understanding of “mandatory vs. directory” constitutional phrases.
Highlights convention’s role in parliamentary democracy.
Examines separation of powers between legislature and executive.
 

Sample Polity Questions & Answers:
Q: Which article mandates the election of Lok Sabha’s Deputy Speaker?
A: Article 93 – Requires LS to choose Speaker and Deputy Speaker “as soon as may be”.
Q: The 2024 Deputy Speaker vacancy is significant because:
a) It violates Article 94
b) It breaks the convention of appointing from opposition
c) The post isn’t constitutionally required
A: b) It breaks the convention of appointing from opposition
Q: Who presides over Lok Sabha if both Speaker and Deputy Speaker positions are vacant?
A: A member from the Panel of Chairpersons (nominated under Rule 9 by the Speaker).
Q: How can a Deputy Speaker be removed from office?
A: By a resolution passed by a majority of all current Lok Sabha members (Article 94).
Q: Which House’s Deputy Chairman is elected exclusively by its own members?
A: Rajya Sabha (Under Article 89).