📘 Q.19 IAS Prelims 2024 — Polity & Governance: Removal of the Speaker of Lok Sabha
📍 The Question
With reference to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, consider the following statements:
While any resolution for the removal of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha is under consideration—
- He/She shall not preside.
- He/She shall not have the right to speak.
- He/She shall not be entitled to vote on the resolution in the first instance.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
✅ Correct Answer: (a) 1 only
🧠 Indexive Theme of the Question
Speaker of Lok Sabha | Article 94 | Removal Procedure | Parliamentary Privileges
🧑🏫 Classroom Explanation
🔹 Statement 1: Correct
- As per Article 94(c) of the Constitution and established parliamentary practice:
- When a resolution for the removal of the Speaker is under consideration, the Speaker shall not preside over the sitting of the House.
- This ensures fairness and avoids conflict of interest.
👉 Statement 1 is correct.
🔹 Statement 2: Not Correct
- Although the Speaker cannot preside:
- He/She is entitled to be present,
- Can speak and participate in the proceedings of the House during the discussion on the resolution.
👉 Statement 2 is incorrect.
🔹 Statement 3: Not Correct
- The Speaker:
- Can vote in the first instance on the resolution,
- But does not have a casting vote in case of a tie.
👉 Statement 3 is incorrect.
📜 Constitutional & Procedural Basis
- Article 94(c) — Removal of Speaker
- Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha
🧠 Prelims Trap Alert
❌ “Speaker cannot vote during removal motion” — Wrong
✔️ Speaker can vote initially, but not cast a deciding vote.
🧘 IAS Monk Whisper
Even when the Chair is questioned, the voice of the Chair is not silenced.
