Constitution of India · Section Article 180
Power of the Deputy Speaker or other person to perform the duties of the office of, or to act as, Speaker
Article 180 — Power of the Deputy Speaker or other person to perform the duties of the office of, or to act as, Speaker
- Power of the Deputy Speaker or other person to perform the duties of the office of, or to act as, Speaker.—(1) While the office of Speaker is vacant, the duties of the office shall be performed by the Deputy Speaker or, if the office of Deputy Speaker is also vacant, by such member of the Assembly as the Governor may appoint for the purpose. (2) During the absence of the Speaker from any sitting of the Assembly the Deputy Speaker or, if he is also absent, such person as may be determined by the rules of procedure of the Assembly, or, if no such person is present, such other person as may be determined by the Assembly, shall act as Speaker.
Plain English Summary
This article explains who can act as the Speaker of the Assembly when the actual Speaker is not present or the office is vacant. It specifies that the Deputy Speaker, or someone appointed by the Governor, can perform these duties. Additionally, during the Speaker's absence in a session, another person determined by the Assembly rules can temporarily act as the Speaker.
Key Points
- When the Speaker's office is empty, the Deputy Speaker will perform the duties.
- If both the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are absent, the Governor can appoint another member to fill the role.
- During a session, if the Speaker is absent, the Deputy Speaker or another person determined by Assembly rules acts as Speaker.
- The Assembly's internal rules determine who steps in when needed.
Why It Matters
This provision ensures that the functioning of the legislative body (the Assembly) continues smoothly even if the primary presiding officer is unavailable, preventing delays in parliamentary proceedings.
Landmark Judgements
No major landmark judgements.