What is Role and Powers of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha?
Historical Background
Key Points
12 points- 1.
The Speaker is elected by a simple majority of the members present and voting in the Lok Sabha.
- 2.
The Speaker presides over the sittings of the Lok Sabha and maintains order in the House.
- 3.
The Speaker decides the admissibility of questions, resolutions, and motions.
- 4.
The Speaker can allow a member to speak in a language other than Hindi or English.
- 5.
The Speaker has the power to adjourn the House or suspend its sitting in case of grave disorder.
- 6.
Visual Insights
Evolution of the Speaker's Role in India
Highlights key milestones in the evolution of the Speaker's role in the Indian Parliament.
The Speaker's role has evolved significantly since independence, becoming increasingly important in managing parliamentary proceedings.
- 1921Sir Frederick Whyte, first Speaker of Central Legislative Assembly
- 1952G.V. Mavalankar, first Speaker of Lok Sabha
- 198510th Schedule (Anti-Defection Law) increases Speaker's role
- 2019Om Birla elected as Speaker of Lok Sabha
- 2026Speaker recuses himself from No-Confidence Motion proceedings
Recent Real-World Examples
1 examplesIllustrated in 1 real-world examples from Feb 2026 to Feb 2026
Source Topic
Opposition's No-Confidence Motion: Speaker Withdraws from Lok Sabha Proceedings
Polity & GovernanceUPSC Relevance
Frequently Asked Questions
121. What is the role of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and what is its constitutional basis?
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is the presiding officer and highest authority of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian Parliament. The Speaker is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha from amongst themselves. Article 93 of the Constitution of India provides for the election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker.
Exam Tip
Remember Article 93 relates to the election of the Speaker. Focus on the functional role as the presiding officer.
2. What are the key provisions related to the powers and functions of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha?
The Speaker's key functions include presiding over the sittings of the Lok Sabha, maintaining order in the House, deciding the admissibility of questions, resolutions, and motions, allowing a member to speak in a language other than Hindi or English, and having the power to adjourn the House or suspend its sitting in case of grave disorder.
Exam Tip
Focus on the Speaker's role in maintaining order and regulating proceedings in the Lok Sabha.
