What Happens When India’s Vice President Resigns? 10 Lesser-Known Facts You Must Know
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The resignation of a Vice President is an unusual political event in India, but when it does happen, it sets off a chain of constitutional procedures, political decisions, and administrative shifts. The recent resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has once again drawn attention to this rarely-discussed process. Here’s a crisp, easy-to-understand guide to what really happens when a Vice President steps down - and ten things you probably didn’t know about it.
1. It Starts with a Simple Letter
A Vice President can resign at any time by submitting a written letter to the President of India . No formal approval is needed, but the resignation must be acknowledged for it to take effect.
2. The Seat Can’t Stay Vacant for Long
Once the position is vacated, a new Vice President must be elected swiftly. The Indian Constitution doesn’t allow for a prolonged vacancy, ensuring that the post is filled without unnecessary delay.
3. Rajya Sabha Has a Backup Plan
Since the Vice President also serves as the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, their resignation triggers an immediate shift. The Deputy Chairman steps in to preside over the Upper House until a new Vice President is elected.
4. Not Everything Is Spelled Out
India’s Constitution sets deadlines for a new election but remains vague about who handles all the Vice President’s ceremonial duties during the interim. By contrast, the U.S. has a clearer succession path through its 25th Amendment.
5. Rare, But Not Unprecedented
India has seen Vice Presidents resign before - VV Giri in 1969 to run for President, and R. Venkataraman in 1987 for the same reason. In the U.S., Spiro Agnew’s 1973 resignation led to Gerald Ford stepping in, showcasing different political reasons and outcomes.
6. It Can Disrupt Governance
The Vice President isn’t just a ceremonial head - they’re key to managing Parliament proceedings. A sudden exit can throw legislative planning and political strategies off balance.
7. How Is the New VP Elected?
In India, only MPs from both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha vote to elect the next Vice President. The process is overseen by the Election Commission. In the U.S., however, the President nominates a new Vice President, who must then be approved by both Houses of Congress.
8. The Rumour Mill Starts Churning
Such resignations often raise speculation - from health issues to political disagreements. Regardless of the actual reason, the public and media are quick to draw their own conclusions, which can influence political narratives.
9. The Constitution Has It Covered
Despite the uncertainties, the Indian Constitution provides a robust framework to handle such changes. It ensures smooth transitions and upholds democratic stability, even during unexpected developments.
10. It’s Often a Stepping Stone
Resigning from the Vice President’s post doesn’t necessarily mean retiring from politics. History shows that many have moved on to hold higher offices or continue contributing in advisory and leadership roles.
A Vice President’s resignation is more than just a political headline - it’s a test of the country’s constitutional preparedness and institutional resilience. While rare, such events underline the importance of a well-defined system that keeps the wheels of democracy turning, even in moments of surprise.
1. It Starts with a Simple Letter
A Vice President can resign at any time by submitting a written letter to the President of India . No formal approval is needed, but the resignation must be acknowledged for it to take effect.
2. The Seat Can’t Stay Vacant for Long
Once the position is vacated, a new Vice President must be elected swiftly. The Indian Constitution doesn’t allow for a prolonged vacancy, ensuring that the post is filled without unnecessary delay.
3. Rajya Sabha Has a Backup Plan
Since the Vice President also serves as the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, their resignation triggers an immediate shift. The Deputy Chairman steps in to preside over the Upper House until a new Vice President is elected.
4. Not Everything Is Spelled Out
India’s Constitution sets deadlines for a new election but remains vague about who handles all the Vice President’s ceremonial duties during the interim. By contrast, the U.S. has a clearer succession path through its 25th Amendment.
5. Rare, But Not Unprecedented
India has seen Vice Presidents resign before - VV Giri in 1969 to run for President, and R. Venkataraman in 1987 for the same reason. In the U.S., Spiro Agnew’s 1973 resignation led to Gerald Ford stepping in, showcasing different political reasons and outcomes.
6. It Can Disrupt Governance
The Vice President isn’t just a ceremonial head - they’re key to managing Parliament proceedings. A sudden exit can throw legislative planning and political strategies off balance.
7. How Is the New VP Elected?
In India, only MPs from both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha vote to elect the next Vice President. The process is overseen by the Election Commission. In the U.S., however, the President nominates a new Vice President, who must then be approved by both Houses of Congress.
8. The Rumour Mill Starts Churning
Such resignations often raise speculation - from health issues to political disagreements. Regardless of the actual reason, the public and media are quick to draw their own conclusions, which can influence political narratives.
9. The Constitution Has It Covered
Despite the uncertainties, the Indian Constitution provides a robust framework to handle such changes. It ensures smooth transitions and upholds democratic stability, even during unexpected developments.
10. It’s Often a Stepping Stone
Resigning from the Vice President’s post doesn’t necessarily mean retiring from politics. History shows that many have moved on to hold higher offices or continue contributing in advisory and leadership roles.
A Vice President’s resignation is more than just a political headline - it’s a test of the country’s constitutional preparedness and institutional resilience. While rare, such events underline the importance of a well-defined system that keeps the wheels of democracy turning, even in moments of surprise.
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