Speaker pro tem:
Appointed by the President to temporarily perform Speaker's duties until a full-time Speaker is elected. (Article 95(1) of the Constitution)
Traditionally, a senior member from the ruling party is chosen by the government. (Not mandated by the Constitution)
Administers oath to other MPs and presides over the election of the Speaker.
Bhartruhari Mahtab (BJP) is the Speaker pro tem for the 18th Lok Sabha
Election of Speaker and Deputy Speaker:
Speaker: Elected by Lok Sabha members on a date fixed by the President. (Article 93)
All Speakers in independent India have been elected unopposed.
Deputy Speaker: Elected on a date fixed by the Speaker.
Conventionally offered to the Opposition party since 1991 (broken in 17th Lok Sabha).
Roles of the Speaker:
Conducts business in the Lok Sabha.
Certifies Money Bills (limited role for Rajya Sabha).
Decides on disqualification of MPs due to defection (Tenth Schedule).
Past Speakers have favored the ruling party in these decisions, which is discouraged.
Refers Bills to Standing Committees for scrutiny. (Referral rate declined recently)
Suspends members for disorderly conduct (used extensively in the 2023 winter session).
Conventions:
British Speaker: Resigns from their political party to ensure impartiality.
Not followed in India, but could be a step towards greater independence.
Deputy Speaker: Traditionally offered to the Opposition party for balanced representation.
This convention should be revived in the 18th Lok Sabha.
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