The Vice-President is the second highest constitutional office in India after the President. The Vice-President acts as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The provisions are given in Articles 63 to 71 of the Constitution.
Election of the Vice-President
The Vice-President is elected by an Electoral College consisting of the elected and nominated members of both Houses of Parliament. Unlike the President's election, State Assembly members do not take part. The election uses proportional representation by single transferable vote.
Eligibility and Term
- Must be a citizen of India.
- Must have completed 35 years of age.
- Must be qualified for election to the Rajya Sabha.
- Term of office is five years.
- Can be re-elected.
Role and Functions
The main function of the Vice-President is to preside over the Rajya Sabha as its Chairman. When the office of the President is vacant due to death, resignation or removal, the Vice-President acts as President for a maximum period of six months.
Removal
The Vice-President can be removed by a resolution passed by the Rajya Sabha with a majority and agreed to by the Lok Sabha. The model for this office was taken from the United States, where the Vice-President chairs the Senate.
Quick Revision Points
- Vice-President is covered under Articles 63-71.
- Acts as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
- Elected only by members of both Houses of Parliament.
- Minimum age 35 years; term 5 years.
- Can act as President for a maximum of 6 months.
- The office is modelled on the US Vice-President.
- Dr. S. Radhakrishnan was the first Vice-President of India.