Kharge Urges PM Modi to Appoint Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker Without Further Delay
New Delhi : Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pressing for the immediate initiation of the process to elect a Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha, a post that has remained vacant for two consecutive terms.
Kharge underscored that up to the 16th Lok Sabha, every House has had a Deputy Speaker, and it has been a parliamentary convention to appoint the Deputy Speaker from the principal Opposition party.
“Leaving this important constitutional position unfilled weakens the spirit of our democracy and goes against the letter and spirit of the Constitution,” Kharge stated.
Key Highlights:
Urgent Appeal: Kharge has written formally to PM Modi, demanding that the Deputy Speaker election process be initiated immediately.
Historical Precedent: Till the 16th Lok Sabha, every Lok Sabha had a Deputy Speaker—traditionally from the Opposition.
Constitutional Concern: The absence of a Deputy Speaker for two full terms is being described as a constitutional violation and democratic erosion.
Opposition Voice Ignored: The letter reflects the Opposition’s concern that important democratic conventions are being bypassed.
Call for Balance: Kharge emphasized that the role of the Opposition must be institutionally respected through such appointments.
This development is likely to intensify the ongoing debate over parliamentary norms and democratic accountability as the 18th Lok Sabha begins its proceedings.
Total Users : 69796