The Chairman of the Lok Sabha is known as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. The Speaker is the presiding officer and the highest authority of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Parliament of India. The Speaker is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha among themselves, and they serve for a term of five years, which is the life of the Lok Sabha.
The Role of the Chairman
The Chairman of the Lok Sabha wears many hats. Here are some of their key responsibilities:
- Presiding over Sessions: The Chairman conducts Lok Sabha sessions, ensuring order and decorum during debates and discussions.
- Recognizing Speakers: They control the flow of the house by recognizing members who wish to speak during debates or ask questions of the government.
- Enforcing Rules: The Chairman ensures adherence to parliamentary rules and regulations, maintaining fair and orderly proceedings.
- Casting Vote: In the case of a tie during voting, the Chairman holds the casting vote, deciding the outcome.
The Speaker is assisted by the Deputy Speaker, who acts as the Speaker in their absence. If the office of the Speaker is vacant, the duties of the office are performed by the Deputy Speaker or, if the office of the Deputy Speaker is also vacant, by such member of the House of the People as the President may appoint for the purpose.
Who Holds the Position?
The Chairman of the Lok Sabha is not chosen from outside the house. Members of Parliament themselves elect a speaker from amongst their peers. This election usually takes place soon after a general election and the formation of a new government.
The Current Chairman
As of today, March 2, 2024, the Chairman of the Lok Sabha is Shri Om Birla. He was elected to the position in June 2019 and continues to serve in this capacity.
The Chairman of the Lok Sabha holds a position of immense responsibility. They are the guardian of parliamentary procedures, ensuring a platform for constructive debate and the smooth running of India’s vibrant democracy.