Speaker Meira Kumar, after completing the process of consultations with Leader of Opposition Sushma Swaraj, issued orders to appoint Viswanathan, who will succeed P.D.T. Achary.
Achary relinquishes office Sep 30.
Viswanathan, who retired last year, is currently an advisor to the ministry of law and justice.
He was secretary to the government of India from April 1, 2000 to Oct 1, 2003; member secretary, Law Commission of India from Oct 1, 2003 to March 31, 2006; and secretary, legislative department from April 1, 2006 to Oct 31, 2009.
Incumbent Achary rose through the ranks of the Lok Sabha staff and has the distinction of serving as the secretary-general for six years. He was given a year’s extension in 2009 despite then leader of opposition LK Advani expressing his reservations on the move.
Published 27 September 2010, 14:35 IST