Article 67(b): Removal Process for Vice President

Why in the news?

Article 67(b) gains attention for outlining the Vice President’s removal process, emphasizing democratic accountability and balancing authority with flexibility in addressing misconduct or incapacity.

Article 67(b): Removal Process for Vice President

Overview of Article 67(b):

  • Article 67(b) of the Indian Constitution specifies the procedure for removing the Vice President, who also serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
  • It ensures accountability while preserving the dignity of the Vice President’s office.

Key Provisions of Article 67(b):

  • Initiation in Rajya Sabha: The process begins in the Rajya Sabha with a resolution passed by a majority of its total members.
  • Approval by Lok Sabha: The resolution requires agreement by the Lok Sabha to take effect.
  • Notice Period: A mandatory 14-day notice, stating the intention and reasons for removal, must precede the resolution.
  • Grounds for Removal: The Constitution does not explicitly define grounds for removal, allowing Parliament members to address issues such as misconduct or incapacity.

Significance of Article 67(b):

  • Checks and Balances: Balances the Vice President’s authority with accountability to Parliament.
  • Broad Consensus: Requires approval from both Houses, preventing misuse and ensuring decisions reflect collective agreement.
  • Democratic Integrity: Demonstrates India’s adherence to democratic principles and constitutional governance.
  • Flexibility: By not limiting grounds for removal, it allows Parliament to address diverse concerns related to the Vice President’s performance or conduct.

About the Removal Process:

  • The Vice President can be removed before completing the term.
  • Initiation: Resolution introduced only in Rajya Sabha, not Lok Sabha.
  • Notice: Requires 14 days’ advance notice.
  • Approval: Passed by Effective Majority in Rajya Sabha and agreed by Simple Majority in Lok Sabha.
  • Grounds: No grounds specified in the Constitution.
  • Precedence: No past instance of removal of a Vice President; a no-confidence resolution was moved against the Deputy Chairman in 2020.

Relevant Articles

  • Article 67(b): Specifies the Vice President’s removal process.
  • Article 90: Relates to the Deputy Chairman’s resignation and removal.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times