With reference to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, consider the following statements: While any resolution for the removal of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha is under consideration 1. He/She shall not preside. 2. He/She shall not have the right to speak. 3. He/She shall not be entitled to vote on the resolution in the first instance. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Answer: A. Only Statement 1 is correct. The Constitution (Article 96) governs the conduct of the Speaker during consideration of a removal resolution. Statement 1 is CORRECT. Article 96(1) provides that the Speaker SHALL NOT PRESIDE over a sitting at which a resolution for his/her removal is under consideration. The Deputy Speaker or another member presides instead. Statement 2 is WRONG. The Speaker DOES have the right to SPEAK during such proceedings. Article 96(2) explicitly grants the Speaker (or Deputy Speaker) the right to speak in, and otherwise take part in the proceedings of, the House when the resolution against him/her is under consideration. Statement 3 is WRONG. The Speaker is ENTITLED TO VOTE in the FIRST INSTANCE on such a resolution (and on any other matter), per Article 96(2). The Speaker only loses the casting vote when not in the chair; the ordinary vote remains. Source: Article 96 of the Constitution / NCERT Class 11 Indian Constitution at Work Ch 5.