Harivansh Narayan Singh elected unopposed for third term as Rajya Sabha deputy chairman

Harivansh Narayan Singh Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman (Image via X)

On Friday, 17 April, Harivansh Narayan Singh was re-elected unopposed for a third term as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, with the support of all political parties. The announcement was made by Chairman CP Radhakrishnan after the House approved the motion by voice vote.

The proposal to elect him was moved by the Leader of the House, JP Nadda and seconded by S. Phangnon Konyak, along with four other supporting motions. As per tradition, Nadda and Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge accompanied Harivansh to the Chair, where he took his seat near the Opposition benches in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

This position had been vacated after he had completed his previous term on 9th April. The President then proceeded to nominate him once again to the Lok Sabha.

While congratulating him, PM Modi said the House had once again shown trust in his experience and balanced conduct. He added that Harivansh’s understanding of proceedings and his life experience have helped improve the functioning of the Upper House.

Kharge also extended his wishes but stressed that the Chair must ensure fair time for the Opposition, saying that space for different views is important in a democracy. He also raised concerns over the Deputy Speaker’s post in the Lok Sabha being vacant since 2019.

During the proceedings, members of the Samajwadi Party and the Trinamool Congress walked out of the session during the discussion on the motion.

Many politicians, such as Tiruchi Siva, Manoj Jha, Ramdas Athawale and John Brittas, praised Harivansh Narayan Singh’s calm handling of debates and his ability to maintain order. Tiruchi Siva said his election was an important moment for nominated members and noted that he could match or even go beyond the four-term record of Najma Heptulla. Many members urged him to give more speaking opportunities to smaller parties and ensure inclusive discussions in the House.

Written by OpIndia Staff
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