Who was the First Speaker of the First Lok Sabha?  

The correct answer is Ganesh Vasudev Mavalankar.

Key Points

• Ganesh Vasudev Mavalankar, often referred to as "Dadasaheb," was the First Speaker of the Lok Sabha after India gained independence.
• He served as the Speaker from 1952 to 1956, during the First Lok Sabha.
• Mavalankar was a prominent figure in India's freedom struggle and was associated with the Indian National Congress.
• He played a key role in shaping parliamentary procedures and strengthening democratic practices in India.
• Before becoming the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, he was the Speaker of the Central Legislative Assembly under British India.

Additional Information

• Role of the Speaker:
  • The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is responsible for maintaining order and decorum in the House during debates.
  • The Speaker represents the Lok Sabha to the President of India and communicates its resolutions.
  • They ensure impartiality and fair conduct in the proceedings of the House.
• Lok Sabha:
  • The Lok Sabha is the lower house of India's Parliament, consisting of representatives directly elected by the people.
  • The First Lok Sabha was constituted in 1952 following the general elections held under the Indian Constitution.
  • It has a maximum strength of 552 members, with 530 representing the states, 20 from Union territories, and 2 nominated by the President.
• Ganesh Vasudev Mavalankar's Legacy:
  • Mavalankar was instrumental in establishing parliamentary norms and traditions in newly independent India.
  • He authored several works on parliamentary practices and procedures.
  • His leadership laid the foundation for India's robust parliamentary democracy.
• Central Legislative Assembly:
  • The Central Legislative Assembly was the precursor to the Lok Sabha during British rule in India.
  • It was established under the Government of India Act, 1919, and had limited legislative powers.
  • Ganesh Vasudev Mavalankar served as the Speaker of this Assembly before India's independence.