The term “Speaker Pro Tem” refers to the temporary appointment of a member of the Lok Sabha (House of the People) to preside over its first meeting after a general election and before the election of a new Speaker. The primary purpose of appointing a Speaker Pro Tem is to conduct the swearing-in of the newly elected members, administer the oath or affirmation to them, and oversee the process of the election of the new Speaker.
Appointment and Role:
Appointment by President:
The President of India appoints a member of the Lok Sabha as the Speaker Pro Tem. This appointment is made to facilitate the commencement of the Lok Sabha’s work immediately after a general election when the Speaker from the previous Lok Sabha has not been elected yet.
Temporary Nature:
The role of the Speaker Pro Tem is temporary and is limited to presiding over the first meeting of the newly elected Lok Sabha until a new Speaker is elected. Once the new Speaker is elected, the Speaker Pro Tem’s role ceases.
Oath Administration:
The Speaker Pro Tem is responsible for administering the oath or affirmation to the newly elected members of the Lok Sabha. Members take the oath or make an affirmation pledging their allegiance to the Constitution of India.
Facilitating Speaker’s Election:
The Speaker Pro Tem oversees the process of the election of the new Speaker. This includes conducting the nomination process, ensuring that the election is conducted fairly, and announcing the results of the election.
Qualifications and Criteria:
Member of Lok Sabha:
The Speaker Pro Tem is selected from among the members of the Lok Sabha. Typically, a senior and experienced member who is not contesting for the position of Speaker in the new Lok Sabha is chosen for this role.
Objective Neutrality:
The Speaker Pro Tem is expected to be neutral and impartial in their conduct during the first meeting. They do not have the authority to participate in or influence the proceedings beyond their temporary role.
Conclusion:
The appointment of a Speaker Pro Tem in the Lok Sabha is a procedural necessity to ensure the smooth commencement of the parliamentary activities after a general election. The Speaker Pro Tem’s role is limited to the initial phase of the new Lok Sabha, and their responsibilities include administering the oath, facilitating the election of the new Speaker, and maintaining order during the first meeting. Once a new Speaker is elected, the Speaker Pro Tem steps down, and the elected Speaker assumes their duties.
