Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha
Context:
In a significant parliamentary development, Harivansh was recently elected unopposed for a third consecutive term as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
This election is notable as it makes him the very first nominated member to occupy this presiding chair.
The appointment garnered praise from across party lines; Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan called it a "resounding affirmation" of cross-party trust, while the Leader of the Opposition termed the election "historic".
Constitutional Framework of the Upper House:
The Rajya Sabha (the Council of States), serving as the upper house of the Parliament of India, is formally established under Article 80 of the Indian Constitution.
The house embodies the federal structure of the Indian nation, specifically functioning to ensure adequate representation for the various states and union territories.
The constitutional framework dictates that the leadership of the upper house includes both the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman.
Together, they play pivotal roles in maintaining the legislative framework and the governance of the country.
Historical Origins of the Council of States:
Montague Chelmsford Reforms:
The concept of bicameralism and a Second Chamber in India was envisioned for the first time under the Montague Chelmsford Reforms proposals.
Government of India Act, 1919:
This Act formally provided that the Indian Legislature would consist of the Governor-General alongside two distinct chambers:
The Council of State
The House of Assembly.
During this period, the term of the Council was strictly fixed at a duration of five years.
Government of India Act, 1935:
This subsequent legislation proposed making the Council of State a permanent, continuous body that would not be subject to dissolution.
Members were proposed to hold their seats for nine years, with one-third of them retiring at the end of every three years (though this specific scheme under the 1935 Act never fully materialized).
The Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha:
He holds a pivotal leadership position within the upper house of the Indian Parliament.
The Council of States (Rajya Sabha) chooses one of its own members to serve as the Deputy Chairman.
If the office becomes vacant, the Council must elect another member to fill the position.
A member must vacate the office if they cease to be a member of the Rajya Sabha.
The Deputy Chairman can resign at any time by submitting a written notice to the Chairman.
Removal from Office:
The Deputy Chairman may be removed by a resolution passed by a majority of all the then members of the Council.
A minimum of 14 days' notice must be given before moving such a resolution.
According to Article 92, the Deputy Chairman cannot preside over a session while a resolution for their own removal is under consideration.
Roles and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Chairman performs the duties of the Chairman if that office is vacant.
They take over the Chairman's duties during any period when the Vice-President is acting as or discharging the functions of the President of India.
They assist the Chairman in managing the affairs of the house and help maintain order during proceedings and debates.
In the event of a vacancy in the Chairman's position, the Deputy Chairman assumes the role temporarily until a new Chairman is elected.
Relationship with the Panel of Vice-Chairmen:
Under the Rules of Procedure of the Rajya Sabha, The Chairman nominates six members to a Panel of Vice-Chairmen.
One of these nominees presides over the House only when both the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman are absent.