Why in news?
The resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar in July 2025 raised questions about the procedures for filling a vacancy and re‑electing a Vice President.
Constitutional provisions and election procedure
- The Vice President is elected by an electoral college consisting of elected and nominated members of both Houses of Parliament. Members of state legislative assemblies do not participate.
- The election is conducted under the Presidential and Vice‑Presidential Elections Act 1952 and the Election Rules 1974.
- Candidates must be proposed and seconded by at least 20 MPs each, file nominations within 14 days of the election notification, and may withdraw within two days after scrutiny.
- If necessary, polling is held by secret ballot using the single transferable vote system; results are declared immediately after counting.
- Unlike the presidential election, there is no constitutionally mandated deadline to fill a Vice‑Presidential vacancy. However, the process typically takes at least 32 days from notification to polling.
Role and significance of the Vice President
- The Vice President serves as the ex‑officio Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha (Article 64) and presides over its proceedings.
- Under Article 65 the Vice President acts as President when the office becomes vacant or when the President is unable to discharge duties.
- The Vice President plays a neutral constitutional role, helping maintain order in the Upper House and ensuring smooth legislative functioning.
Understanding the re‑election process is essential for appreciating the checks and balances built into India’s constitutional framework.