Who Is the Vice President of India?
The Vice President of India is the second-highest constitutional office in the country, coming after the President. Many people often ask, who is the current Vice President of India and what does the role involve? This article provides a detailed and easy-to-understand explanation of the Vice President of India, including the current office holder, duties, election process, and importance of the position.
Current Vice President of India
The Vice President of India is Jagdeep Dhankhar. He assumed office on 11 August 2022 and is the 14th Vice President of India. He succeeded M. Venkaiah Naidu and continues to serve as an important figure in India’s constitutional and parliamentary system.
About Jagdeep Dhankhar
Jagdeep Dhankhar was born in Rajasthan and has a strong background in law and public service. He is a senior advocate and has held several important positions in Indian politics and governance. Before becoming Vice President, he served as the Governor of West Bengal, where he was known for his active role in constitutional matters.
His experience in law, administration, and politics has played a major role in shaping his approach as Vice President.
Constitutional Role of the Vice President of India
The Vice President of India holds a unique and powerful position under the Indian Constitution. Unlike many other ceremonial offices, the Vice President has an active role in the functioning of Parliament.
The Vice President serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, which is the Upper House of Parliament. In this role, the Vice President:
- Presides over Rajya Sabha sessions
- Maintains order and discipline during debates
- Decides on parliamentary procedures and rules
- Ensures smooth functioning of legislative discussions
The Vice President does not vote in the Rajya Sabha except in the case of a tie.
Vice President as Acting President
One of the most important responsibilities of the Vice President is stepping in as the Acting President of India when the President is unable to perform duties due to absence, illness, resignation, or death.
During this period, the Vice President exercises all the powers and responsibilities of the President until a new President is elected or the sitting President resumes office.
How the Vice President of India Is Elected
The Vice President of India is elected indirectly, not by the general public. The election is conducted by an electoral college consisting of members of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
The election follows a system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote, and voting is done by secret ballot. This process ensures fair representation and balance within Parliament.
The Vice President serves a five-year term and can be re-elected for multiple terms.
Qualifications to Become Vice President
To be eligible for the post of Vice President of India, a person must:
- Be a citizen of India
- Be at least 35 years old
- Be qualified to be elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha
- Not hold any office of profit under the Government of India or any state government
Importance of the Vice President’s Office
The Vice President plays a crucial role in maintaining the dignity, neutrality, and effectiveness of parliamentary proceedings. As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the Vice President ensures that laws are debated properly and that democratic principles are upheld.
The office also provides stability in governance, especially during times when the President’s position becomes vacant or temporarily unavailable.
Difference Between the President and Vice President of India
While the President is the head of state and the supreme constitutional authority, the Vice President’s primary role is linked to Parliament. The Vice President does not function as a deputy in daily governance but acts as a constitutional backup when required.
Both offices are essential for the smooth functioning of India’s democracy.
Conclusion
In summary, Jagdeep Dhankhar is the current Vice President of India. The Vice President holds a vital constitutional position, serving as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and stepping in as Acting President when necessary. Understanding the role of the Vice President helps citizens appreciate how India’s parliamentary and constitutional systems work together to ensure stable governance.
