In a significant political development in Gujarat, Deputy Speaker of the state legislative assembly, Jethabhai Bharwad, has tendered his resignation from the post. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA submitted his resignation letter to Speaker Shankar Chaudhary on Tuesday, February 20, 2024.
Resignation Ahead of Crucial Assembly Session
The timing of the resignation is notable as it comes just before the commencement of the Gujarat Assembly's budget session. The session is scheduled to begin on Thursday, February 22. While the official reasons for his stepping down were not immediately detailed in the official communication, the move has sparked considerable discussion in political circles.
Jethabhai Bharwad represents the Dhandhuka constituency in the Ahmedabad district. He has held the position of Deputy Speaker since December 2022, following the BJP's decisive victory in the state assembly elections. His resignation was accepted by Speaker Shankar Chaudhary, who now oversees the proceedings of the House without a deputy.
Political Context and Speculations
The resignation occurs against the backdrop of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, scheduled for later this year. While no direct link has been officially established, such moves are often viewed through the lens of larger political strategies and organizational reshuffles. The BJP, which holds a strong majority in the Gujarat Assembly, will need to elect a new Deputy Speaker to assist in conducting the House's business.
The development is seen as a major shift in the assembly's leadership structure. The role of the Deputy Speaker is crucial for maintaining order and assisting the Speaker, especially during lengthy or contentious sessions. With the budget session imminent, which involves the presentation and discussion of the state's annual financial plan, the absence of a Deputy Speaker adds a new dynamic to the proceedings.
What Happens Next?
According to parliamentary procedure, the assembly will now have to elect a new Deputy Speaker. The ruling party typically nominates a candidate for this position, and given the BJP's overwhelming numbers, their nominee is expected to be elected smoothly. The election process for the Deputy Speaker is likely to be taken up during the ongoing budget session.
This event marks the first major change in the Gujarat Assembly's presiding officers' panel since the current government was formed. Observers are keenly watching to see who the BJP will nominate for the role, as it often indicates the party's trust in a particular legislator and can be a stepping stone for higher responsibilities.
The resignation of Jethabhai Bharwad, while sudden, is being processed within the normal democratic framework of the state legislature. It underscores the continuous evolution of political roles and responsibilities within India's vibrant democratic system, even in states with a stable political mandate.
