The monsoon session of the 18th Lok Sabha is set to commence on June 24, marking the inaugural session for newly elected members of the lower house of Parliament. A key event during this session will be the election of a new Speaker on June 26.
With the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) securing 240 seats, 32 short of a clear majority, the support of NDA allies like the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal (United) will play a pivotal role in shaping the government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Election Process of the Lok Sabha Speaker
The Speaker is chosen from among the members of the Lok Sabha through a secret ballot. MPs cast their votes, and the candidate who garners the majority becomes the Speaker.
Nominees for the position can be any member of the Lok Sabha, with factors such as seniority, experience, and impartiality typically influencing the selection process.
In the previous terms of the 16th Lok Sabha (2014) and the 17th Lok Sabha (2019), the BJP held sufficient seats to independently form the government, resulting in Sumitra Mahajan and Om Birla, both BJP MPs, being elected unopposed as Speakers.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Lok Sabha Speaker
The Speaker serves as the foremost authority of the House, ensuring parliamentary traditions and democratic norms are upheld. Key responsibilities include:
– Presiding over House proceedings, maintaining order, and determining speaking turns.
– Safeguarding the rights and privileges of MPs, ensuring fair participation in debates and other proceedings.
– Interpretation and application of House rules, ensuring decorum and discipline.
– Participation in discussions without voting except in cases of a tie.
– Adjourning or suspending sessions in the absence of a quorum.
– Certifying Money Bills and managing joint sessions with the Rajya Sabha.
– Overseeing parliamentary committees and recommending studies and reports.
Above all, the Speaker must uphold fairness and impartiality, representing the entire House irrespective of political affiliations.
As the Lok Sabha prepares for its upcoming session, the election of the Speaker stands as a significant step in shaping parliamentary governance and ensuring effective representation.
