Actual Article
Article 63: The Vice-President of India
There shall be a Vice-President of India.
UPSC Notes for Article 63
Explanation:
- Existence of Office: Article 63 mandates the establishment of the office of the Vice-President of India.
- Constitutional Role: The Vice-President serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
Key Points:
- Second Highest Constitutional Office: The Vice-President is the second highest constitutional office in India, following the President.
- Dual Role: Apart from being the Vice-President, they act as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, ensuring the smooth functioning of the Upper House of Parliament.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 63
Cases:
- Mohd. Saeed Siddiqui vs State of Uttar Pradesh (2014): Although not directly related to Article 63, this case discusses the broader roles and responsibilities of constitutional functionaries.
- Dhananjay Sharma vs State of Haryana (1995): Highlighted the importance of upholding the dignity and independence of constitutional offices, including that of the Vice-President.
Commissions:
- National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (2000): Reviewed the roles and responsibilities of the Vice-President, suggesting improvements in the functioning of this office.
- Administrative Reforms Commission (1966 and 2005-2009): Emphasized the importance of the Vice-President’s role in maintaining parliamentary democracy and suggested measures to strengthen the office.
Important Reports Related to Article 63
- Law Commission Reports: Discussed the duties and privileges of the Vice-President, providing recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of the office.
- Parliamentary Standing Committee Reports: Examined the functioning of the Rajya Sabha under the chairmanship of the Vice-President, offering insights into procedural reforms.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 63
- (UPSC Prelims 2013) Which of the following statements about the Vice-President of India is correct?
- A. The Vice-President is a member of the Rajya Sabha.
- B. The Vice-President acts as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
- C. The Vice-President can act as President for six months.
- D. The Vice-President is elected by the members of Lok Sabha only. Correct Answer: B. The Vice-President acts as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
- (UPSC Prelims 2017) Who among the following is not a part of the electoral college for the election of the Vice-President of India?
- A. Members of Rajya Sabha
- B. Members of Lok Sabha
- C. Members of Legislative Assemblies
- D. None of the above Correct Answer: C. Members of Legislative Assemblies
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 63
- Mains 2015: “Examine the role of the Vice-President of India as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. How does this dual role contribute to the functioning of Indian parliamentary democracy?”
- Mains 2019: “Discuss the constitutional significance of the office of the Vice-President in India. How does the Vice-President’s role differ from that of the President?”
Additional Insights:
- Role in Rajya Sabha: As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the Vice-President plays a crucial role in moderating debates, maintaining order, and ensuring the legislative process is conducted smoothly. This role is vital for the functioning of the Upper House, which represents the states of India.
- Succession to Presidency: The Vice-President stands first in the line of succession to the Presidency. If the President’s office becomes vacant, the Vice-President acts as the President until a new President is elected, ensuring continuity of governance.
- Election Process: The Vice-President is elected by an electoral college consisting of members of both Houses of Parliament, reflecting the federal structure and ensuring representation from across the political spectrum.
Understanding Article 63 is essential for UPSC aspirants as it outlines the existence and significance of the Vice-President’s office in the Indian Constitution. This knowledge is vital for both preliminary and main examinations, offering insights into the role and responsibilities of the second highest constitutional office in India.