The resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar as Vice-President of India in 2025 has initiated the constitutional process to elect his successor. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) formally notified his resignation, transferring responsibility to the Election Commission of India (EC) to conduct the election. However, the election is unlikely to conclude before the Monsoon Session of Parliament ends. This delay is due to statutory timelines and procedural requirements under the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act.
Resignation Notification and Its Impact
Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned nearly two years ahead of his term’s completion. The MHA issued an official gazette notification confirming his resignation. This formal step is essential to activate the election process. Until the EC receives this notification, it cannot begin election preparations. The Rajya Sabha was informed immediately, and the Deputy Chairman presided over the session.
Election Commission’s Role and Timeline
The EC must organise the Vice-Presidential election once the resignation is official. Unlike presidential elections, there is no fixed deadline for vice-presidential polls. However, the EC follows a statutory timeline of 30 to 32 days from election notification to result declaration. This includes nomination filing, scrutiny, withdrawal, and polling if necessary.
Detailed Election Procedure
The election process begins with the EC issuing a public notification. Candidates have 14 days to file nominations. The EC then scrutinises these papers in one day. Candidates can withdraw within two days post-scrutiny. If multiple candidates remain, polling occurs no earlier than 15 days after withdrawal. The entire process from notification to result takes at least 32 days.
Preparations Before Notification
Before issuing the election notification, the EC requires two to three weeks for preparation. This includes updating the electoral college list, which comprises all members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Ballot papers are printed in approved formats and languages. Candidate names are arranged according to the final list as per election rules.
Effect on Parliamentary Sessions
Due to procedural timelines and preparatory requirements, the new Vice-President will likely assume office after the Monsoon Session ends in August 2025. The Rajya Sabha may only welcome the new Chairperson during the Winter Session, scheduled for November-December. This interim period may affect parliamentary proceedings and leadership.
Health Concerns and Early Resignation
Dhankhar cited health reasons for his early resignation. Such voluntary departure before term completion is rare and triggers a constitutional procedure to fill the vacancy. The resignation marks the importance of clear statutory processes to ensure smooth transitions in high constitutional offices.
Significance of the Vice-President’s Role
The Vice-President of India serves as the Rajya Sabha Chairperson and is the second highest constitutional office. The position is crucial for parliamentary functioning and succession to the Presidency. Timely elections maintain democratic continuity and uphold constitutional mandates.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the constitutional provisions and election process for the Vice-President of India. Discuss the significance of statutory timelines in maintaining democratic governance.
- With suitable examples, discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in conducting national elections and ensuring free and fair polls.
- Analyse the impact of early resignation of high constitutional office holders on parliamentary proceedings and political stability. Critically discuss in the light of Indian democracy.
- What is the role of the Vice-President as Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha? How does this position influence legislative functioning and political balance in India?
