Lok Sabha Speaker Pays Floral Tributes to Shri Somnath Chatterjee

Why in news

The Lok Sabha Speaker and other dignitaries paid floral tributes to former Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Somnath Chatterjee on his birth anniversary in the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan.

Exam relevance

GS2 · Polity, Governance · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Shri Somnath Chatterjee was born on 25 July 1929 in Tezpur, Assam.
2. He was a distinguished lawyer by profession.
3. He entered active politics in 1968.
4. He was first elected to the Lok Sabha in 1971.
5. He served ten consecutive terms as a Member of Parliament.
6. He was unanimously elected as the Speaker of the 14th Lok Sabha on 4 June 2004.
7. He served as Speaker until 31 May 2009.
8. He was conferred the Outstanding Parliamentarian Award in 1996.
9. He introduced several key initiatives to modernize parliamentary functioning during his tenure as Speaker.

Prelims pointers

• Shri Somnath Chatterjee was a former Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
• He was elected Speaker of the 14th Lok Sabha.
• He received the Outstanding Parliamentarian Award in 1996.
• He served ten consecutive terms as an MP.

Mains practice question

Examine the role and significance of the Speaker in the functioning of the Indian Parliament. Discuss the contributions of prominent Speakers in upholding parliamentary values and practices.

Static linkage

The news relates to the institution of the Lok Sabha, its Speakership, and the role of Parliamentarians in India's democratic framework. Shri Somnath Chatterjee's career highlights the importance of parliamentary experience, legal background, and dedication to legislative functioning.

Significance

The event underscores the respect and recognition accorded to former Speakers and distinguished parliamentarians, reinforcing the continuity and institutional memory within India's parliamentary system. It also serves as a reminder of the contributions made by individuals in shaping parliamentary practices and debates.