[DS] Deputy Speaker acts as the interim speaker when the main speaker is absent. She enjoys all powers of the speaker in that instance.

DS goes beyond ceremonial significance and is indispensable

i) Constitutional provision for Deputy Speaker – instituted in [Art 93] itself.

ii) Not secondary to speaker

iii) She can vote in 1st instance if tied.

iv) Gives voice to the opposition

v) All power privileges also provided

vi) Becomes voice initiated in a coalition government → active role in debate and discussion.

Implication of polarized spaces:

i) It is a sign of ruling party's dominance → DS speaker decides election of DS

ii) It affects the constitutional morality of the parliament.

iii) Misuse of leader of opposition Act, 1977 → 10% rule used to disallow opposition (Inattendance)

and its personnel [Leader of Opposition, Deputy Speaker etc].

iii) Many committees lose one office leader [headed by DS by default].

(b) Parliamentary Standing Committee

Needful Improvements:

i) Recognize opposition despite 10% rule

ii) Set time line for DS election

iii) Ensure hearing dates

iv) Assign set days for DS to head the parliamentary write opposition leading the agenda

Hence, Deputy Speaker must become the 'instrument' of ensuring parliamentary discipline and balance.

— HARSHDEEP SAGAR · AIR 299