What is a Pro-tem Speaker?
Pro-tem Speaker
The Lok Sabha, the lower house of India's Parliament, is a cornerstone of the nation's legislative process. At the heart of its operations is the Speaker, who presides over its proceedings and ensures the smooth functioning of the house. However, before the selection of the new Speaker following general elections, the Lok Sabha requires a temporary presiding officer known as the Pro-tem Speaker.
Role and Importance of the Pro-tem Speaker
The term 'Pro-tem' is derived from the Latin phrase 'pro tempore,' meaning 'for the time being' or 'temporarily.' The Pro-tem Speaker is a temporary position filled to facilitate the transition until the permanent Speaker is elected by the newly constituted Lok Sabha.
According to Article 94 of the Indian Constitution, the outgoing Speaker of the Lok Sabha continues in office until immediately before the first meeting of the new Lok Sabha. Once the new Lok Sabha is convened, the Pro-tem Speaker steps in to oversee its initial sessions.
Selection Process
The Constitution does not explicitly mention the post of the Pro-tem Speaker, but the process is detailed in the official 'Handbook on the Working of Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.' When the Lok Sabha is dissolved and a new one is formed, the President of India appoints a senior member of the house as the Pro-tem Speaker. Typically, this member is one of the most senior in terms of years of service in the Lok Sabha.
The selection process involves several steps:
1. Preparation of the List: The Legislative I Section of the Government of India prepares a list of the senior-most members of the Lok Sabha.
2. Approval Process: This list is submitted to the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs or the Prime Minister, who then identifies an MP as the Pro-tem Speaker. Additionally, three other senior MPs are selected to assist in the oath-taking process.
3. Consent and Appointment: After obtaining the Prime Minister's approval, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs secures the consent of the selected MPs. A note is then submitted to the President for final approval.
4. Administration of Oath: The President administers the oath to the Pro-tem Speaker at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. The Pro-tem Speaker then administers the oath to the other three appointed members in the Lok Sabha.
Duties of the Pro-tem Speaker
The primary duty of the Pro-tem Speaker is to administer the oath of office to the newly elected members of the Lok Sabha, as mandated by Article 99 of the Constitution. This article states that every member must make and subscribe an oath or affirmation before taking their seat.
Once the new members are sworn in, the Pro-tem Speaker presides over the election of the new Speaker of the Lok Sabha. This involves conducting the election process and ensuring it adheres to the house's rules and procedures.
Significance of the Post
While the role of the Pro-tem Speaker is temporary, it is crucial for ensuring the smooth transition and functioning of the Lok Sabha during its initial sessions. The impartiality and efficiency of the Pro-tem Speaker help in maintaining the decorum and order necessary for the legislative body to operate effectively.
For political parties like the BJP and its allies, the post of the Speaker, and consequently the Pro-tem Speaker, holds significant strategic importance. The Speaker's role in facilitating debates, maintaining order, and ensuring the implementation of legislative procedures can influence the legislative agenda and functioning of the house.
Conclusion
The Pro-tem Speaker is a pivotal figure in the Lok Sabha, ensuring the seamless commencement of its proceedings. Although the role is temporary, the Pro-tem Speaker's responsibilities are fundamental to the democratic process, underscoring the importance of experienced and impartial leadership in the early stages of a new legislative session.