TNI Bureau: The post of Deputy Speaker in the Lok Sabha has remained vacant for almost seven years, raising serious concerns about parliamentary conventions and democratic balance.

Traditionally, the Deputy Speaker is elected from the Opposition to ensure neutrality and strengthen bipartisan functioning of the House. However, since the constitution of the 17th Lok Sabha in 2019, the position has not been filled.

The last Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha was M. Thambidurai, who served during the 16th Lok Sabha (2014–2019). He belonged to the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).

Under Article 93 of the Constitution of India, the House is required to elect both a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker “as soon as may be.” While the Speaker’s post has been filled, the continued delay in electing a Deputy Speaker has drawn criticism from constitutional experts and Opposition leaders, who argue that it weakens institutional checks and undermines parliamentary traditions.

The absence of a Deputy Speaker also affects the smooth functioning of the House, as the role is crucial in presiding over proceedings in the Speaker’s absence and maintaining order during debates. Growing voices now urge the government to uphold democratic norms and fill the vacancy without further delay.