Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, also the Rajya Sabha leader of opposition, recently sent a letter to PM Narendra Modi, pressing for the election of the Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker. Kharge emphasized the importance of filling this vacant position, which has been unoccupied for two consecutive terms, highlighting the impact on India's democratic polity and constitutional provisions.

In his letter, Kharge pointed out that from the First to the Sixteenth Lok Sabha, a Deputy Speaker was appointed, usually from the principal opposition party. However, this tradition was not followed in the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Lok Sabha terms, raising concerns about the continuity and balance in the functioning of the lower house of Parliament.

The Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha plays a crucial role in presiding over sessions in the absence of the Speaker, ensuring the smooth conduct of the House, and upholding parliamentary processes. Despite being elected from a political party, the Deputy Speaker is expected to maintain a non-partisan approach, similar to the Speaker, to promote fairness and impartiality in proceedings.

Traditionally, the Deputy Speaker position is offered to a member of the opposition or another party to maintain a balance in the house. This practice, though not mandated by the Constitution, contributes to the effective functioning of the Lok Sabha and the continuity of parliamentary activities.

The last Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha was M. Thambi Durai from the AIADMK, who served during the 16th Lok Sabha term. Kharge's letter to PM Modi underscores the significance of electing a Deputy Speaker to uphold democratic principles and ensure the efficient functioning of India's lower house of Parliament.