Introduction

The Indian Constitution is a comprehensive document that lays down the framework for the functioning of the government and the rights and responsibilities of its citizens. Article 67 of the Indian Constitution deals with the term of office of the Vice-President. This article provides important provisions regarding the tenure, election, and removal of the Vice-President of India. In this article, we will explore the details of Article 67 and its significance in the Indian political landscape.

Understanding Article 67

Article 67 states that the Vice-President of India shall hold office for a term of five years from the date on which he enters upon his office. The Vice-President is elected by an Electoral College consisting of members of both houses of Parliament, namely the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). The Vice-President is the second-highest constitutional office in India, and the role holds great significance in the functioning of the government.

Election of the Vice-President

The process of electing the Vice-President of India is outlined in Article 66 of the Indian Constitution. According to this article, the Vice-President is elected by an Electoral College consisting of members of both houses of Parliament. The members of the Electoral College cast their votes by means of a secret ballot, and the Vice-President is elected by a simple majority of votes.

It is important to note that the Vice-President is not directly elected by the people of India. Unlike the President, who is elected by an electoral college consisting of elected members of both houses of Parliament and the State Legislative Assemblies, the Vice-President is elected only by the members of Parliament.

Term of Office

Article 67 specifies that the Vice-President of India shall hold office for a term of five years from the date on which he enters upon his office. Unlike the President, who can be re-elected for a maximum of two terms, there is no limit on the number of terms a Vice-President can serve. However, it is important to mention that the Vice-President can be removed from office before the completion of his term through a process called impeachment.

The Vice-President can be removed from office by a resolution passed by a majority of the total membership of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) and agreed to by the Lok Sabha (House of the People). The resolution for removal can be introduced in either house of Parliament, and if it is passed by a majority of the members present and voting, it is sent to the other house for concurrence. If the resolution is agreed to by both houses, the Vice-President is removed from office.

Role and Responsibilities

The Vice-President of India plays a crucial role in the functioning of the government. The Vice-President is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), the upper house of Parliament. In this capacity, the Vice-President presides over the sessions of the Rajya Sabha, maintains order, and ensures that the proceedings are conducted in a fair and impartial manner.

Additionally, the Vice-President performs various other functions such as representing India at official functions, acting as the President in case of a vacancy in the office of the President, and performing other duties assigned by the President.

Significance of Article 67

Article 67 of the Indian Constitution is significant as it provides the framework for the tenure, election, and removal of the Vice-President of India. By specifying the term of office and the process of election, this article ensures stability and continuity in the functioning of the government. It also establishes the Vice-President as an important constitutional office with specific roles and responsibilities.

Furthermore, Article 67 highlights the principles of democracy and the separation of powers. The Vice-President, being elected by an Electoral College consisting of members of Parliament, represents the collective will of the people's representatives. This ensures that the Vice-President is accountable to the legislature and serves as a check on the executive branch of the government.

Conclusion

Article 67 of the Indian Constitution provides important provisions regarding the term of office of the Vice-President of India. It outlines the process of election, the term of office, and the removal of the Vice-President. The Vice-President plays a crucial role in the functioning of the government and serves as an important constitutional office. By establishing clear guidelines and principles, Article 67 ensures stability, continuity, and accountability in the Indian political landscape.