The Rajya Sabha, one of the two houses of the Parliament of India, is set to elect a new Deputy Chairman, a position of constitutional importance. The need for this election arises from Article 89 of the Indian Constitution. It states that the Rajya Sabha must select one of its members to assume this role whenever it becomes vacant.
The Election Process for the Deputy Chairman
To fill a vacancy in the position of the Deputy Chairman, the Rajya Sabha conducts internal elections with its members. Any incumbent Rajya Sabha MP can propose a fellow member’s name for this constitutional position through the submission of a motion. This motion needs to be seconded by another member. Also, to confirm the nominee’s willingness, the member proposing the name has to provide a written declaration from the proposed MP expressing their readiness to serve as the Deputy Chairperson if elected.
Members are restricted to moving or seconding only a single motion each. Following this process, the candidate who receives the majority of votes from the house’s members assumes the Deputy Chairmanship. However, in an event where political parties reach a consensus on a particular candidate, that MP could be elected unanimously as the Deputy Chairperson.
The Tenure of the Deputy Chairman
The term of the Deputy Chairman ends under three circumstances: if the Deputy Chairman is no longer a member of the Rajya Sabha, resigns from his office by submitting a written letter to the Chairman, or is removed through a resolution passed by a majority of the Rajya Sabha members. A minimum of 14 days’ advance notice is required to move such a resolution.
The Role and Responsibilities of the Deputy Chairman
The Deputy Chairman shoulders critical responsibilities both during the absence of the Chairman and when the Vice President discharges the functions of the President. The Deputy Chairman steps in to perform the duties of the Chairman’s office in such scenarios and enjoys all the powers of the Chairman.
The efficient running of the Rajya Sabha also depends significantly on the Deputy Chairman’s role. Unlike being subordinate to the Chairman, the Deputy Chairperson is directly accountable to the Rajya Sabha.
The Remuneration of the Deputy Chairman
The Deputy Chairman is entitled to a regular salary and allowances, which are set by Parliament. These expenses are charged to the Consolidated Fund of India.
