New Delhi: The Vice President of India occupies the country’s second-highest constitutional office and plays an important role in the functioning of Parliament and the Union executive.
The office of the Vice President is established under Article 63 of the Constitution. The Vice President also serves as the ex officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, presiding over its proceedings.
Under Article 66, a person contesting for the office must be an Indian citizen and at least 35 years old. The candidate must also be eligible for election to the Rajya Sabha and cannot hold an office of profit under the government, subject to constitutional provisions.
The Vice President is elected by members of both Houses of Parliament. The electoral college consists of elected and nominated members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Unlike the Presidential election, members of state Legislative Assemblies do not take part in the Vice-Presidential election.
The election is conducted through proportional representation using the single transferable vote, with voting held by secret ballot. Disputes concerning the election are decided by the Supreme Court.
The Vice President normally holds office for five years and can be re-elected. The officeholder may resign by submitting a written resignation to the President.
The Constitution also provides for the removal of the Vice President. A removal resolution must first be passed by the Rajya Sabha with the required majority and subsequently agreed to by the Lok Sabha. A 14-day notice is required before such a resolution is moved.
The Vice President can also discharge the functions of the President when the presidential office becomes vacant or when the President is temporarily unable to perform official duties.
