'The post of Deputy Speaker goes beyond ceremonial significance and is indispensable to Indian parliamentary democracy.' Discuss with relevant constitutional provisions and conventions. Also, examine the implications of the prolonged vacancy of the Deputy Speaker's post.

Role of Deputy Speaker

1. Constitutional mandate under article 93 to appoint a Deputy speaker.
2. Ensures continuity in parliamentary functioning in absence of speaker
3. Conventionally, he/she is derived from the opposition to provide balance of power and neutrality

(4)

Promoting deliberation and involving opposition ↓ creates healthy democracy

Implication of Prolonged vacancy

(1) Dilution of constitutional supremacy (2) Weak opposition : Inability to exert control over executive. (3) Loss of public trust : Speaker and Dy. speaker are the protector and interpreter of constitution. (4) Public accountability is diluted (5) Impact on quality of deliberation due to loss of neutrality. (6) Parliamentary committee are losing their significance in deliberation and consultation.

Way Forward

(1) Judicial intervention to provide for the time period of electing deputy speaker. Eg. Supreme court guideline for governor to give assent to bill (2) Role of opposition in ensuring executive accountability via greater role in parliament.