Understanding the Constitutional Role of the Pro-tem Speaker

The Constitutional Bridge: What is a Pro-tem Speaker?

The term 'Pro-tem' is derived from Latin, meaning 'for the time being'. In the legislative process, the Pro-tem Speaker serves as a temporary presiding officer who bridges the gap between the dissolution of an old assembly and the election of a permanent Speaker for the new house.

Core Functions and Duties:

• Administering Oaths: The primary and most crucial role is to administer the oath of office to all newly elected MLAs.


• Presiding Officer: The Pro-tem Speaker presides over the house during the initial sittings until a permanent Speaker and Deputy Speaker are elected.


• Appointment: In State Legislative Assemblies, the Governor appoints the Pro-tem Speaker and administers their oath. In the Lok Sabha, the President performs this duty.


• Selection Criteria: Traditionally, the senior-most member of the house is chosen for this role, though it is a convention rather than a strict legal rule.

The office of the Pro-tem Speaker is temporary and ceases to exist immediately once a permanent Speaker is elected.

For TNPSC and Polity aspirants, this role is a key part of the 'State Legislature' syllabus, illustrating the temporary nature of certain constitutional offices.