The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is an important parliamentary position responsible for assisting the Chairman in the smooth functioning of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Parliament of India. The Deputy Chairman is elected by members of the Rajya Sabha and serves as the presiding officer in the absence of the Chairman.
Election and Appointment:
Election by Members:
The Deputy Chairman is elected by the members of the Rajya Sabha from amongst themselves. The election takes place through a motion moved by the Chairman, and members participate in the voting process.
Nomination by Chairman:
Before the election of the Deputy Chairman, the Chairman may nominate a member to preside over the Rajya Sabha temporarily in case both the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman are absent. This temporary arrangement is known as the “Panel of Chairpersons.”
Qualifications:
The Deputy Chairman must be a member of the Rajya Sabha. Similar to the Chairman, the Deputy Chairman must meet the eligibility criteria to be a member of the Rajya Sabha.
Term:
The term of the Deputy Chairman is not fixed by the Constitution but is generally linked to the tenure of the Rajya Sabha. The Deputy Chairman continues in office until a new Deputy Chairman is elected by the Rajya Sabha.
Role and Functions:
Presiding Over Sessions:
The Deputy Chairman presides over the sessions of the Rajya Sabha in the absence of the Chairman. The Deputy Chairman performs the duties of the Chairman, ensuring the orderly conduct of proceedings and maintaining parliamentary decorum.
Casting Vote:
Similar to the Chairman, the Deputy Chairman has a casting vote in case of a tie on any matter being voted upon in the Rajya Sabha. This casting vote is exercised in addition to the Deputy Chairman’s original vote.
Decision on Points of Order:
The Deputy Chairman has the authority to decide on points of order raised by members during debates. The Deputy Chairman’s rulings on parliamentary procedures are considered final, subject to the house’s discretion.
Committee Participation:
The Deputy Chairman may participate in the work of parliamentary committees, but not in the Committee of the Whole Rajya Sabha, which is chaired by the Chairman.
Assistance to Chairman:
The Deputy Chairman provides assistance to the Chairman in the overall functioning of the Rajya Sabha. They collaborate to ensure the effective conduct of parliamentary business.
Independence and Impartiality:
Non-Partisan Role:
The Deputy Chairman is expected to maintain impartiality and act in a non-partisan manner. While elected from among the members of a political party, the Deputy Chairman is required to perform their duties independently.
Resignation:
The Deputy Chairman can resign by submitting a resignation letter to the Chairman. The resignation becomes effective when accepted by the Chairman.
Conclusion:
The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha plays a crucial role in the functioning of the upper house of Parliament. Their responsibilities include presiding over sessions in the absence of the Chairman, casting votes in case of ties, and ensuring the smooth conduct of parliamentary proceedings. The Deputy Chairman’s independence and impartiality contribute to the effective functioning of the Rajya Sabha.
