Lok Sabha Speaker Post: Who Will Get it After Modi 3.0 Signs In?

The BJP fell short of a majority in the recent elections, leading its top leadership to engage in hectic discussions with allies such as N Chandrababu Naidu’s TDP and Nitish Kumar’s JDU to reach a consensus on ministerial appointments. Despite this, the BJP managed to organize a swearing-in ceremony for a full cabinet of 72 ministers just four days after the election result. The key allies, TDP and JDU, have secured two ministerial positions each — one cabinet rank and one minister of state post. Meanwhile, the important question of who will be appointed as the Lok Sabha Speaker’s post remains unresolved.

Reports suggest that the TDP and JDU, viewed as kingmakers in this election, are interested in this position. However, BJP sources have indicated that they are not inclined to give up this role. A pro-tem Speaker will be appointed initially, followed by the election of a Speaker from among the House members by a simple majority. While there are no specific criteria for the election of a Lok Sabha Speaker, familiarity with the Constitution and parliamentary rules is advantageous.

The Speaker is expected to be non-partisan, but the occupant is typically a representative of a particular party. Personal political stances of Speakers have resulted in controversy, such as Mr Chatterjee’s expulsion by the CPM in 2008. Additionally, in cases of internal party disputes, the Speaker has significant authority under the anti-defection law. The kingmaker parties seek the Speaker’s post as a safeguard against potential attempts to undermine their positions by other political players.