BJP Likely To Retain Lok Sabha Speaker's Post, TDP May Get Deputy's Role

BJP is likely to retain the Lok Sabha Speaker post in the upcoming government, with indications that the incumbent, Om Birla, may continue for another term.

This decision is expected to be supported by BJP's allies, as PM Modi's choice for the role is anticipated to be accepted unanimously.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has reportedly been handed over the responsibility to build a consensus with NDA allies and Opposition by negotiating with them.

Before the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha, which starts on June 24, a crucial meeting of the NDA allies is expected this week to reach a consensus on the Speaker's selection. This meeting may occur on June 20, aiming to finalise the Speaker by June 26.

"Everything will be clear after this meeting. BJP's intention is to select a speaker which is acceptable to the allies. A meeting with the allies will make this clear this week. The final declaration of the name will be made by the PM on June 26 -- the day election for this post has been scheduled in the LS -- reflecting the coalition's strategic cohesion," a senior BJP leader informed.

Among the potential candidates for the position are D Purandeshwari, a BJP MP and the party chief in Andhra Pradesh, and Radha Mohan Singh, a six-time MP and former Union minister. There is also speculation that the BJP might offer the Deputy Lok Sabha Speaker post to an NDA ally, such as the TDP.

If the Opposition forces an election for the Speaker's post, it would be unprecedented, as the presiding officer has always been chosen by consensus since India's independence. Only four previous Speakers MA Ayyangar, GS Dhillon, Balram Jakhar, and GMC Balayogi have retained the position in subsequent Lok Sabhas.