Harivansh Narayan Singh re-elected unopposed as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman

The motion to elect him was moved by Leader of the House JP Nadda and seconded by S Phangnon Konyak, with four other motions also backing his candidature. Chairman CP Radhakrishnan formally announced the result, declaring Harivansh elected after the House voiced its approval.

Following convention, Nadda and Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge escorted him to the Chair, where he took his seat beside the Opposition benches in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The post had fallen vacant after Harivansh’s earlier term ended on April 9. He was subsequently nominated to the House by President Droupadi Murmu, paving the way for his re-election.

Congratulating him, Modi said the House had once again reposed faith in his experience and conduct. He remarked that Harivansh’s way of functioning and his grasp over proceedings had strengthened the effectiveness of the Upper House, adding that his life experiences continue to inform and enrich parliamentary debates.

Kharge, while extending his congratulations, said he expected the Deputy Chairman to ensure fair space for the Opposition. He underlined that giving adequate time to dissenting voices was essential for a healthy democracy. The Congress leader also pointed to the continued vacancy of the Deputy Speaker’s post in the Lok Sabha since 2019, calling it inconsistent with constitutional expectations.

Earlier in the proceedings, members of the Samajwadi Party and the Trinamool Congress staged a walkout as the motion was taken up.

Across party lines, members welcomed Harivansh’s return to the Chair. Tiruchi Siva termed his election a milestone for nominated members and said he could match or surpass the four-term record of Najma Heptulla. Several MPs cited his calm handling of tense debates and his ability to keep proceedings orderly even during sharp divisions.

Leaders, including Manoj Jha, Ramdas Athawale and John Brittas, highlighted his political grounding, journalistic background and efforts to uphold the dignity of the House. Many also urged the Chair to ensure greater speaking opportunities for smaller parties and more inclusive debates.