The post of Deputy Speaker goes beyond ceremonial significance and is indispensable to Indian parliamentary democracy. Discuss with relevant constitutional provisions and conventions. Also, examine the implications of the prolonged vacancy of the Deputy Speaker's post.

Role of Deputy Speaker 1) Constitutional mandate under article 93 to appoint a Deputy Speaker 2) Ensures continuity in parliamentary functioning in absence of speaker 3) Conventionally, he/she is derived from the opposition to provide

balance of power and neutrality Constitutional mandate promoting deliberation and involving Opposition Implication of Prolonged Vacancy 1) Dilution of constitutional supremacy 2) Weak opposition: inability to exert control over executive 3) Loss of public trust: Speaker and Deputy Speaker are the protector and interpreter of constitution 4) Public accountability is diluted 5) Impact on quality of deliberation due to loss of neutrality 6) Parliamentary committee are losing their significance in deliberation and consultation