Why in News?
The Election Commission has begun preparations for the Vice-Presidential election following Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation due to health reasons. The Vice President is elected by an Electoral College of both Houses, as per the 1952 Act and 1974 Rules.
Description:
The Vice Presidents of India hold the second-highest constitutional office after the President.
Election Process:
- Elected indirectly by members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha (no state involvement).
- Proportional representation by single transferable vote.
- Secret ballot.
Removal:
- No impeachment process like the President.
- Can be removed by:
- Resolution in Rajya Sabha (majority).
- Agreed to by Lok Sabha.
- No grounds are required — hence more political and flexible.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Indian citizen.
- Minimum 35 years of age.
- Eligible for Rajya Sabha.
- Cannot hold an office of profit under any government/public authority.
Tenure & Vacancy:
- 5 years, but:
- Continues till successor takes over.
- Can resign (to President).
- Can be removed.
- Vacancy can also occur due to death or invalidation of election.
Powers & Functions:
- Chairman of Rajya Sabha (ex-officio).
- Acts as President during:
- Vacancy due to death, resignation, impeachment, etc.
- Maximum 6 months till the new President is elected.
- Does not hold regular executive powers unless acting as President.
Key Facts:
- First VP: Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1952–62).
- Only VP with 2 full terms: Mohammad Hamid Ansari (2007–2017).
- Present VP (2022–2025): Jagdeep Dhankhar.
- 14 individuals have held the post (1952–2025).
- The 11th Constitutional Amendment (1961) changed election from joint sitting to separate votes in both Houses.
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