QUES . Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices. UPSC 2023 GS MAINS PAPER II, 150 words, 10 Marks
HINTS:
Presiding Officers play a crucial role in state legislatures by maintaining order, impartiality, and facilitating democratic practices. They ensure the smooth functioning of the house and uphold democratic values, as mentioned in Articles 178 and 182 of the Indian Constitution.
Must read: Need for impartiality and integrity in the functioning of Speakers in Indian legislative bodies
Role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order
The Presiding Officer can defer a debate, adjourn the house, or call for a short recess if they believe it’s necessary to restore order.
In cases of extreme misbehavior or breach of protocol, the Presiding Officer has the authority to order the removal or suspension of members from the House.
Presiding Officers are responsible for ensuring that legislative proceedings adhere to established rules.
They oversee the conduct of debates, discussions, and voting processes, ensuring that these activities follow the prescribed procedures.
They play a vital role in ensuring that debates remain civil and respectful. They can call members to order if they engage in personal attacks, use offensive language, or disrupt proceedings, contributing to the quality of discussions.
Role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in ensuring impartiality while conducting legislative work
Once elected, the Presiding Officer is expected to rise above partisan interests. They must conduct proceedings without any bias.
Based on the anti-defection law, the Presiding Officer can disqualify members who defect from their parties. This decision needs to be impartial, weighing the merits of each case.
In case of a tie on any matter being voted upon in the house, the Presiding Officer exercises a casting vote, ensuring they do so without displaying any prejudice.
They ensure that members from all political parties have equitable opportunities to participate in debates and discussions.
Role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in facilitating best democratic practices
Presiding Officers often hold meetings with leaders of different political parties to discuss the agenda and maintain consensus on conducting proceedings. This ensures participation of all the political voices in democracy.
The Presiding Officer ensures that debates are constructive, allowing members from both the ruling and opposition parties to voice their opinions.
By ensuring that members, especially those from minority parties or those without party affiliations, get adequate opportunities to participate in debates.
Thus, the importance of the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in upholding the sanctity of democratic practices, ensuring the smooth functioning of legislative business, and maintaining the trust of the public in legislative institutions is indispensable. Their role is central to the effective functioning of the legislative process and the preservation of democratic principles.
For more information: External link: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/jaipur/presiding-officers-of-legislatures-branches-respect-constitutional-boundaries-8378414/
