The Vice President of India is the second-highest constitutional authority established under Article 63 of the Constitution. The office is more than ceremonial. The Vice President is the ex officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and acts as President if required. Since 1952, the role has evolved with India’s political changes. The Vice Presidency reflects the nation’s intellectual, political, and social progress.
Constitutional Role and Powers
The Vice President is elected by an electoral college comprising members of both Houses of Parliament. The office-holder presides over the Rajya Sabha, ensuring orderly conduct and adherence to parliamentary rules. In the absence or vacancy of the President, the Vice President discharges presidential duties. This dual role demands constitutional knowledge and impartiality.
Early Leadership and Philosophical Foundation (1952–1969)
The initial Vice Presidents were eminent intellectuals and freedom fighters. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the first Vice President, was a philosopher and academic whose tenure set high standards. Zakir Husain, an educationist and social reformer, brought moral stature. V. V. Giri, a labour leader, linked the office directly with national politics by contesting the presidency independently, causing a major political upheaval.
Stabilising Influence During Political Turmoil (1969–1987)
This era saw jurists and administrators as Vice Presidents. Gopal Swarup Pathak, a legal scholar, emphasised constitutional propriety. B. D. Jatti served during the Emergency and acted as President, navigating complex political scenarios. Mohammad Hidayatullah, a former Chief Justice, reinforced the rule of law. Ramaswamy Venkataraman acted as a mediator between top leaders, underscoring the office’s diplomatic importance.
Vice Presidency as a Stepping Stone (1987–2002)
Vice Presidents increasingly moved on to the Presidency. Shankar Dayal Sharma and K. R. Narayanan exemplified this trend. Narayanan was the first Dalit Vice President, marking social progress. Krishan Kant, a socialist and freedom fighter, faced unprecedented challenges including the 2001 Parliament attack. His tenure was noted for efforts to maintain Rajya Sabha decorum.
The Modern Era and Political Integration (2002–Present)
The Vice Presidency became intertwined with party politics. Bhairon Singh Shekhawat was the first BJP Vice President, reflecting political shifts. Mohammad Hamid Ansari served two terms, known for parliamentary discipline. Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu focused on rural issues and effective debates. Jagdeep Dhankhar maintained order but resigned in 2025. The current Vice President, C. P. Radhakrishnan, represents continuity with an emphasis on stability and nonconfrontation.
Significance in Indian Democracy
The Vice President’s role is vital for parliamentary governance and constitutional balance. The office combines legislative oversight with readiness to assume the Presidency. Its occupants have shaped parliamentary traditions and often influenced national politics. The Vice Presidency remains a symbol of experience, wisdom, and constitutional integrity.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the role of the Vice President of India in maintaining parliamentary democracy and constitutional stability.
- Examine the significance of the Vice President’s position as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha in the context of legislative governance.
- With suitable examples, discuss the evolution of the Vice Presidency as a stepping stone to the Presidency and its impact on Indian politics.
- Analyse the influence of political parties on constitutional offices in India. How does this affect the impartiality of positions like the Vice President?
