The Constitution of India
Article 180
Power of the Deputy Speaker or other person to perform the duties of the office of, or to act as, Speaker
(1) While the office of Speaker is vacant, the duties of the office shall be performed by the Deputy Speaker or, if the office of Deputy Speaker is also vacant, by such member of the Assembly as the Governor may appoint for the purpose.
(2) During the absence of the Speaker from any sitting of the Assembly the Deputy Speaker or, if he is also absent, such person as may be determined by the rules of procedure of the Assembly, or, if no such person is present, such other person as may be determined by the Assembly, shall act as Speaker.
Why this exists
State Assemblies need continuous leadership to conduct business, maintain order, and follow procedure. Vacancies (due to death, resignation, or removal) or temporary absences of the Speaker could otherwise bring proceedings to a halt. Article 180, mirroring Article 95 for Parliament's Lok Sabha, ensures there is always a clear, orderly line of succession so the Assembly can function without interruption.
Common misconceptions
- Myth: Only the Deputy Speaker can ever act as Speaker.
Fact: The Article allows for further backups: the Governor can appoint a member if the Deputy Speaker's post is vacant too, and the Assembly's rules or the Assembly itself can decide who acts if both the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are absent from a sitting. - Myth: Article 180 deals with the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha.
Fact: This Article specifically applies to State Legislative Assemblies; the equivalent provision for the Lok Sabha is Article 95.