Actual Article
Article 66: Election of Vice-President
The Vice-President shall be elected by the members of an electoral college consisting of the members of both Houses of Parliament in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote and the voting at such election shall be by secret ballot.
UPSC Notes for Article 66
Explanation:
- Electoral College: Article 66 stipulates that the Vice-President shall be elected by an electoral college comprising members of both Houses of Parliament.
- Proportional Representation: The election process follows the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote, ensuring a fair and representative selection process.
- Secret Ballot: The voting at the election of the Vice-President is conducted by secret ballot, ensuring the freedom of choice and preventing any external influences.
Key Points:
- Representation: The inclusion of members from both Houses of Parliament in the electoral college ensures representation from across the political spectrum.
- Fairness: The use of proportional representation and secret ballot promotes fairness and transparency in the election process, upholding democratic principles.
- Impartiality: The election process ensures that the Vice-President is chosen by their peers in Parliament, reflecting a consensus-based approach.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 66
Cases:
- S.P. Anand vs. H.D. Deve Gowda (1996): Although not directly related to Article 66, this case discussed the principles of fair elections and the role of constitutional functionaries.
Commissions:
- Election Commission of India: Responsible for overseeing the conduct of the Vice-Presidential elections, ensuring they are conducted in accordance with constitutional provisions and electoral laws.
- Law Commission Reports: Offer recommendations for electoral reforms, including those related to the Vice-Presidential election process.
Important Reports Related to Article 66
- Election Commission Reports: Provide insights into the conduct of Vice-Presidential elections, including voter turnout, electoral trends, and any irregularities observed.
- Parliamentary Standing Committee Reports: Examine the electoral process for the Vice-President and suggest measures for enhancing its efficiency and fairness.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 66
- (UPSC Prelims 2015) How is the Vice-President of India elected?
- A. By direct popular vote
- B. By the members of the Rajya Sabha
- C. By the members of an electoral college consisting of both Houses of Parliament
- D. By the President of India Correct Answer: C. By the members of an electoral college consisting of both Houses of Parliament
- (UPSC Prelims 2018) The election of the Vice-President of India is conducted by:
- A. The Election Commission of India
- B. The President of India
- C. The members of an electoral college consisting of both Houses of Parliament
- D. The Prime Minister of India Correct Answer: C. The members of an electoral college consisting of both Houses of Parliament
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 66
- Mains 2016: “Examine the electoral process for the Vice-President of India as outlined in Article 66 of the Constitution. How does this process ensure a fair and representative selection of the Vice-President?”
- Mains 2020: “Discuss the significance of the electoral college system in the election of the Vice-President of India. How does Article 66 ensure a democratic and transparent process in the selection of the Vice-President?”
Additional Insights:
- Democratic Principles: The election of the Vice-President by members of both Houses of Parliament reflects the democratic ethos of India’s constitutional framework, ensuring representation and participation.
- Transparency and Fairness: The use of proportional representation and secret ballot in the election process promotes transparency and fairness, allowing for the free expression of preferences by elected representatives.
- Constitutional Mandate: Article 66 establishes the electoral process for selecting the Vice-President, emphasizing the importance of a systematic and constitutional approach to filling this high office.
Understanding Article 66 is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it elucidates the process by which the Vice-President of India is elected. This knowledge is essential for both preliminary and main examinations, providing insights into the democratic principles and electoral mechanisms inherent in India’s constitutional setup.