The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is an important constitutional office in India’s parliamentary system, serving as the second presiding officer of the Upper House of Parliament. This position plays a key role in ensuring smooth legislative proceedings and maintaining order when the Chairman is absent. As of 2025, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is Harivansh Narayan Singh, a seasoned politician and Member of Parliament representing the state of Bihar. His leadership in this role reflects both his legislative experience and his ability to conduct debates without bias, which is crucial for the effective functioning of the Rajya Sabha.
Role of the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha
The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is elected by members of the Rajya Sabha from among their own ranks. This position is provided for under topic 89 of the Constitution of India. The Deputy Chairman presides over the proceedings of the Rajya Sabha when the Chairman is not present, and he has the same powers as the Chairman in such circumstances. This includes conducting debates, ensuring parliamentary rules are followed, and managing discussions on bills and motions. In addition, the Deputy Chairman may chair certain committees and serve as an important representative of the House.
Functions and Responsibilities
- Presides over Rajya Sabha sessions in the absence of the Chairman.
- Maintains order and decorum during debates.
- Decides on points of order raised by members.
- Ensures procedures and rules are followed, especially during voting and discussions.
- Represents the Rajya Sabha in parliamentary forums when required.
These duties require not only in-depth knowledge of parliamentary procedures but also fairness and impartiality, since the Deputy Chairman must manage discussions among members with diverse political views.
Harivansh Narayan Singh Current Deputy Chairman
Harivansh Narayan Singh holds the office of Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. He has served in this position since being elected on 14 September 2020, and he continues in the role as of 2025. Singh is a Member of Parliament from Bihar and represents the Janata Dal (United) party, which is part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). He was first elected Deputy Chairman on 8 August 2018 and was re-elected after securing another term following his re-election to the Rajya Sabha.
Background and Political Career
Born on 30 June 1956 in the district of Ballia in Uttar Pradesh, Harivansh Narayan Singh has had a long career spanning journalism and politics. Before entering Parliament, he worked as a journalist and editor, which gave him experience in communication and public discourse. His transition to politics was marked by his nomination to the Rajya Sabha from Bihar in 2014. Since then, he has played an active role in legislative affairs, representing his state and contributing to debates on national issues.
Significance of the Position
The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is critical to the continuity of parliamentary procedures. The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is, by constitutional design, the Vice President of India. The Deputy Chairman must step in whenever the Vice President is unable to preside. For example, in July 2025, when Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from his post due to health concerns, Harivansh Narayan Singh assumed the responsibility of presiding over the Rajya Sabha’s session until a new Vice President and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha was in place.
Legislative Balance and Neutrality
One of the key expectations of the Deputy Chairman is neutrality. Since the role involves presiding over debates and sometimes making decisions that affect the flow of discussion, the person in this position must maintain impartiality. Although Harivansh belongs to a political party, his effectiveness as Deputy Chairman depends on his ability to manage diverse opinions and ensure all members have the opportunity to speak. This balance helps maintain the credibility and smooth functioning of the Rajya Sabha.
Procedure for Election
The Deputy Chairman is elected by a majority vote of the Rajya Sabha members. When a vacancy arises, members nominate candidates, and an election is held unless there is unanimous consensus on a nominee. Members from different political parties participate in the process, making it an essential aspect of India’s democratic framework. The Deputy Chairman holds office for a term of six years, or until their term as a Rajya Sabha member expires, whichever comes first.
Term and Removal
- The Deputy Chairman can be removed from office by a resolution passed by a majority of the Rajya Sabha members.
- They can also vacate the position if they resign in writing or cease to be a member of the Rajya Sabha.
- If the office becomes vacant, a new election is held to fill the position.
The rules surrounding the Deputy Chairman’s tenure ensure that parliamentary leadership remains stable and representative of current legislative membership.
Role in Parliamentary Committees
In addition to presiding over house sessions, the Deputy Chairman may have roles in various parliamentary committees. These committees examine legislation, review government policies, and provide oversight on national issues. Active participation in committees allows the Deputy Chairman to shape policy discussions and ensure legislative scrutiny. Although this role varies depending on committee assignments, it highlights the broader responsibilities associated with the position beyond the chairing of sessions.
Collaboration with Other Officials
The Deputy Chairman works closely with other leaders in the Rajya Sabha, including the Leader of the House, the Leader of the Opposition, and committee chairs. Together, these leaders manage legislative business, schedule discussions, and address procedural challenges. Collaboration across party lines is often essential to ensure the House functions effectively.
The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha plays a vital role in India’s parliamentary system, acting as the secondary presiding officer of the Upper House and ensuring continuity in legislative proceedings. Harivansh Narayan Singh currently holds this esteemed position, bringing experience as a seasoned politician and communicator. His role involves maintaining neutral and orderly debate, supporting legislative functions when the Chairman is absent, and contributing to parliamentary committee work. The process of election, duties, and responsibilities of the Deputy Chairman reflect the democratic principles underlying India’s governance. Understanding who the Deputy Chairman is and what the position entails provides insight into the workings of the Rajya Sabha and highlights the importance of leadership roles within the country’s legislative framework.