THE VICE PRESIDENT OF INDIA

The Vice President of India holds a significant position within the Indian political system. As the second-highest constitutional office, the role is defined primarily by the Constitution of India and carries both ceremonial duties and substantive powers. The Vice President serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), the upper house of the Indian Parliament, and plays a crucial part in the smooth functioning of the legislature.

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Constitutional Basis and Election

Constitutional Provisions:

• Article 63 to 71 of the Indian Constitution lay down the provisions relating to the office of the Vice President.
• Article 63 mentions that there shall be a Vice President of India.

Election Process:

• The Vice President is elected by an electoral college consisting of members of both Houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha).
• The election is held through a single transferable vote method, using proportional representation.
• The elected Vice President serves a five-year term, with no limit on re-election.

Qualifications for Election:

• Must be a citizen of India.
• Must have completed 35 years of age.
• Must be qualified to be elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha.
• Must not hold any office of profit under the Government of India or the Government of any State.

Disqualification:

• Ineligibility to hold the office under certain conditions, including having been convicted for corrupt practices or any offense under the Representation of the People Act.

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Role and Powers of the Vice President

As the Chairman of Rajya Sabha:

• The Vice President of India serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
• The Chairman has the authority to maintain order during debates and can take disciplinary actions against members.
• The Chairman decides the agenda and calls for votes during the proceedings of Rajya Sabha.
• The Chairman also has the casting vote in case of a tie.

In the Event of a Vacancy in the Office of the President:

• The Vice President steps into the role of Acting President in case of a vacancy due to death, resignation, or other causes.
• The Vice President holds this office until a new President is elected.
• During this period, the Vice President assumes all the powers and functions of the President.

Executive Powers:

• The Vice President’s executive powers are largely symbolic, as the office-holder typically does not have direct involvement in governance.
• However, the Vice President does have some roles in the administration in case the President is temporarily absent.

Important Functions and Responsibilities

Presiding Over Rajya Sabha:

• The Vice President presides over the sessions of the Rajya Sabha, which makes the office an important role in the legislative process.
• The Chairman has a significant role in shaping the parliamentary debate and ensuring its smooth conduct.

Succession to the Presidency:

• In the event of a vacancy in the office of the President, the Vice President automatically assumes the role of acting President.
• This is a critical constitutional provision that ensures continuity in governance.

Disciplinary Functions:

• As the Chairman, the Vice President has the authority to take disciplinary action against members of Rajya Sabha for violating the rules of procedure.
• The Vice President may suspend or expel members if necessary.

Advisory Role:

• The Vice President is often consulted by the President or the Prime Minister on various matters, although this is typically in an informal capacity.

Impeachment and Removal

• Impeachment:
• The Vice President of India can be removed from office through a process of impeachment by Parliament.
• The motion for impeachment must be approved by a majority of members in both Houses of Parliament.
• The grounds for impeachment are the same as those for the President of India, which include violation of the Constitution.

Recent Developments and Current Vice President

• Mention the current Vice President (as of 2025), and provide brief information about their background, achievements, and contributions.
• Highlight any recent developments or actions taken by the Vice President in their capacity as the Chairman of Rajya Sabha or in other areas of responsibility.

Challenges and Criticisms

• Lack of Active Role:
• Unlike the President of India, the Vice President doesn’t have much involvement in executive functions, which leads to debates about the relevance of the office.
• The office is often seen as ceremonial with limited powers, and some critics argue that its role should be redefined.
• The Challenge of Presiding Over a Diverse and Complex Rajya Sabha:
• Managing a diverse group of members with varying political views and maintaining order in the Rajya Sabha is no easy task.
• The Vice President, as Chairman, often faces the challenge of impartiality and upholding the rules of procedure in a sometimes heated and contentious environment.

Conclusion

The office of the Vice President of India holds an essential but largely symbolic role in Indian politics. While the position has substantial responsibilities as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and can step in as acting President when necessary, it is often viewed as a less prominent role compared to that of the President or Prime Minister. Nevertheless, the Vice President’s duties are crucial for the functioning of India’s parliamentary system and constitutional governance.

Key Takeaways for UPSC Aspirants:

• Understand the constitutional provisions related to the Vice President's election and powers.
• Focus on the difference between the roles of the President and Vice President.
• Keep track of any recent political developments involving the Vice President, especially in their role in the Rajya Sabha.