Role of the Vice President

The Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, is presided over by the vice president of India under office. As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the Vice President plays a crucial role in directing the proceedings and upholding the dignity and decorum of the chamber.

 Indian Vice President's historical background

• In 1950, when India's constitution came into effect, the position of vice president was established. 
• Since its founding, there have been 13 vice presidents. 
• Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was sworn in as India's first vice president on May 13, 1952.
• Following that, V.V. Giri resigned from his position as vice president to take over as acting President of India following the passing of Zakir Hussain in 1969. 
• Six of the 13 Vice Presidents in this group became president. 
• The only person to pass away during his tenure was Krishna Kant. 
• Venkaiah Naidu was appointed as India's thirteenth vice president on August 11, 2017.

What are the Vice President-Related Provisions?

• Vice President:

• In India, the vice president holds the second-highest constitutional position. Although he or she may stay in office beyond the initial five years, they do, regardless of the term's end, until the successor takes over.
• The Vice President may resign by submitting his resignation to the President of India. As soon as it is accepted, a resignation is officially effective. 
• A resolution of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha), approved by the House of the People and passed by a majority of its members at the time, may be used to remove the Vice President from office (Lok Sabha).
• Only after giving at least 14 days notice of the intention to do so may a resolution for this purpose be moved.

• Eligibility:

• The person should be of Indian nationality.
• The age of 35 should have been reached.
• The person should be eligible for election as a Rajya Sabha member.
• Person Shall not hold any position with a profit-making potential under the jurisdiction of the Union government, state government, local authority, or other public body.

• Electoral College:

• The members of the Electoral College elect the Vice-President in accordance with Article 66 of the Indian Constitution.
• Electoral College is made up of the following:
• Elected Rajya Sabha members.
• The Rajya Sabha's nominees.
• Elected Lok Sabha members.

A few of the Vice President of India's major duties as Rajya Sabha Chairman are listed below:

• The Vice President oversees the Rajya Sabha and oversees the conduct of its business in compliance with the house rules. They ensure that the conversations and debates are made effectively and orderly and that everyone has an equal chance to voice their opinions.
• Upholding Order: The Chairman's primary duty is to uphold order and decorum in the chamber. They have the authority to take action against any member who interferes with the proceedings, speaks out of turn, or otherwise acts unruly.
• The Chairman also interprets the house's rules and makes decisions about any points of order put up by the members. Additionally, they can request a vote or division on any matter and announce the outcome.
• Setting aside time for Debates: The Chairman also sets aside time for debates and discussions on various proposals and subjects to give all members a chance to voice their opinions. The amount of time allocated for each speaker can also be decided by them.
• Nomination of Members to Committees: The Rajya Sabha Chairman also makes nominations for the Business Advisory Committee, the Petitions Committee, and the Committee on Subordinate Legislation.
• Communication with the Lok Sabha: The Vice President also speaks on behalf of the Rajya Sabha in communications with the Lok Sabha, the Indian Parliament's lower house, on issues including the passage of legislation, the creation of joint committees, and joint sessions of both houses.

In conclusion, the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the Vice President of India, is a key player in ensuring the efficient operation of the upper house of the Indian Parliament. They maintain decorum and order in the chamber, interpret the chamber's rules, allot time for debates, suggest candidates for committees, and communicate with the Lok Sabha on the chamber's behalf.

Discuss the role of the Vice President of India as the Chairman of Rajya Sabha. (UPSC: Mains- 2022)