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Category — GS Paper 2 ///Published — 2026-04-18 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Indian Constitution, Parliament, Rajya Sabha ///Category — GS Paper 2 ///Published — 2026-04-18 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Indian Constitution, Parliament, Rajya Sabha ///

News · GS Paper 2

Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha: Key Facts & Functions

Harivansh Narayan Singh became the first nominated MP to serve as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, re-elected unopposed for a third term. The position is governed by Article 89(2) of the Constitution, with the Deputy Chairman presiding over the House in the Vice-President's absence and exercising similar powers. This topic is crucial for UPSC Prelims as it tests constitutional provisions and factual knowledge about parliamentary institutions.

2026-04-18

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Historical Context

In a historic first, Harivansh Narayan Singh, a nominated Member of Parliament, was appointed as the Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha. He was re-elected unopposed for a third consecutive term, marking a significant precedent in parliamentary history.

Constitutional Provisions

Article 89(2) of the Constitution

Mandates that Rajya Sabha (Council of States) shall elect one of its members as Deputy Chairman
Ensures continuity in functioning whenever the office becomes vacant

Election Procedure

Motion: Any Rajya Sabha member can move a motion proposing another member
Declaration: Proposed candidate must submit willingness to serve if elected
Seconding: Motion must be seconded by another member
Election: Conducted to ensure uninterrupted functioning of the House

Term of Office

The Deputy Chairman holds office until:

Ceases to be a member of Rajya Sabha
Submits resignation to the Chairman
Is removed by the House via resolution

Role and Functions

Presiding Functions

Presides over the House in absence of Chairman (who is the Vice-President)
Exercises all powers of the Chairman during that period

Voting Power

Cannot vote in the first instance while presiding
Can only exercise casting vote in case of a tie

Independence of Office

Not subordinate to the Chairman
Directly responsible to Rajya Sabha

Participation When Chairman Presides

Acts as a normal member
Can participate in debates and vote

Removal Procedure

Can be removed by a resolution passed by majority of all then members
Requires 14 days' prior notice
Cannot preside when removal resolution is under consideration

Salary and Allowances

Fixed by Parliament
Charged on Consolidated Fund of India

Panel of Vice-Chairpersons

Under Rajya Sabha Rules:

Chairman nominates a panel of Vice-Chairpersons from among members
Any can preside in absence of Chairman and Deputy Chairman
Cannot preside when either office is vacant

Key Differences: Chairman vs Deputy Chairman

Aspect	Chairman	Deputy Chairman
Office	Vice-President of India	Elected from among members
Tenure	5 years (co-terminous with VP term)	Until ceases to be member
Voting	No vote in first instance	No vote in first instance
Casting Vote	Yes	Yes