Art. 95 Part V: The Union

Power of the Deputy Speaker or Other Person to Perform the Duties of the Office of, or to Act as, Speaker

Exact text — Constitution of India

(1) While the office of Speaker is vacant, the duties of the office shall be performed by the Deputy Speaker or, if the office of Deputy Speaker is also vacant, by such member of the House of the People as the President may appoint for the purpose. (2) During the absence of the Speaker from any sitting of the House of the People the Deputy Speaker or, if he is also absent, such person as may be determined by the rules of procedure of the House, or, if no such person is present, such other person as may be determined by the House, shall act as Speaker.

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

The Lok Sabha's equivalent succession chain to Article 91's Rajya Sabha arrangement — if the Speaker's office is vacant or they're simply absent from a particular sitting, the Deputy Speaker (or, failing that, someone appointed under the House's rules) steps in, ensuring continuous presiding coverage.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This ensures the Lok Sabha always has a functioning presiding officer for every sitting, with a clear, predictable order of succession if the Speaker is unavailable for any reason.

Read alongside this one

Art. 93 — The Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the House of the People

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 95

Who presides if both the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are absent from a particular sitting?

The House's own rules of procedure determine who steps in next, and failing that, the House itself can determine who presides for that sitting.

← PreviousArticle 94: Vacation and Resignation of, and Removal From, the Offices of Speaker and Deputy Speaker Next →Article 96: The Speaker or the Deputy Speaker Not to Preside While a Resolution for His Removal From Office Is Under Consideration

The text above reproduces Article 95 of the Constitution of India as amended to date, for general educational reference. It is public-domain legislative text, but we recommend cross-checking the authoritative version at legislative.gov.in or india.gov.in before relying on it for a legal matter. The explanation, examples and FAQs are general information, not legal advice — consult a qualified advocate for guidance on your specific situation.