The resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar as Vice-President of India in 2025 has renewed focus on the election process and eligibility criteria for this constitutional post. His departure has initiated the procedure to elect a new Vice-President and raised questions about re-election possibilities for former officeholders.
Election Procedure of Vice-President
The Vice-President is elected indirectly by an Electoral College. This body consists of members from both Houses of Parliament — Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha — including nominated members. Unlike the Presidential election, state legislative assemblies do not participate. Voting is by secret ballot using the single transferable vote system. MPs rank candidates by preference. To win, a candidate must secure a quota calculated as half of the total valid votes plus one. The Election Commission of India supervises the entire process.
Eligibility Criteria for Vice-President
Candidates must fulfil specific conditions. They must be Indian citizens and at least 35 years old. They should be qualified to become Rajya Sabha members. Holding any office of profit under the government disqualifies a candidate. This ensures impartiality and adherence to constitutional norms.
Term and Continuity of Office
The Vice-President serves a term of five years. However, they continue in office until a successor assumes charge. This provision ensures no vacancy occurs in this vital constitutional post. The role includes acting as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Re-election and Multiple Terms
The Constitution of India places no limit on the number of terms a person can serve as Vice-President. A former Vice-President may contest again immediately or after a gap. Multiple terms are possible if elected through the prescribed process. This flexibility allows experienced leaders to return to office.
Historical Instances of Resignation
Jagdeep Dhankhar is the third Vice-President to resign before completing the term. VV Giri resigned in 1969 to contest the Presidential election after President Zakir Husain’s death. R Venkataraman resigned in 1987 after being elected President. These resignations show the interconnectedness of the two highest constitutional offices.
Role of the Election Commission
The Election Commission of India plays important role in conducting the Vice-Presidential election. It ensures transparency and fairness. The Commission sets the election schedule, supervises voting, and announces results. It also handles disputes and maintains the sanctity of the electoral process.
Significance of the Vice-President’s Election
The Vice-President is second highest constitutional authority in India. The election reflects parliamentary democracy and federal principles. The indirect election by MPs ensures the candidate has broad parliamentary support. The post holds importance in legislative and executive functions.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of the Election Commission of India in maintaining the integrity of indirect elections such as that of the Vice-President.
- Explain the significance of the single transferable vote system in proportional representation. How does it impact the election of constitutional posts in India?
- What are the constitutional provisions regarding the resignation of high constitutional offices? Discuss with suitable examples from Indian history.
- Underline the importance of eligibility criteria for constitutional posts in India. How do these criteria ensure impartiality and effective governance?
