Topic: Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
Q4. Outline the constitutional position and functional powers of the Lok Sabha Speaker. Bring out how statutory discretion is expected to be exercised in constitutionally sensitive situations. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Easy
Reference: TH
Why the question
Recurrent constitutional controversies involving the Speaker’s discretionary powers, especially in sensitive matters affecting democratic stability and institutional neutrality.Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining the constitutional position and core functions of the Lok Sabha Speaker, and outlining how statutory discretion is expected to be exercised in constitutionally sensitive situations. It also seeks identification of the safeguards that prevent arbitrariness in the Speaker’s exercise of power.Structure of the Answer
Introduction
Briefly highlight the Speaker as the constitutional custodian of parliamentary functioning and neutrality, linking the office to democratic stability and legislative propriety.Body
- Constitutional position and powers of the Speaker as presiding, procedural, and quasi-judicial authority
- Norms governing exercise of statutory discretion in sensitive constitutional situations
- Institutional and constitutional safeguards ensuring non-arbitrary exercise of discretion
Conclusion
Conclude by emphasising the need for restrained discretion, constitutional morality, and stronger conventions to preserve the Speaker’s credibility and parliamentary democracy.
