🏛️ Introduction
The Vice President of India holds the second-highest constitutional office in the country, after the President. Resignation from this prestigious post is a rare but constitutionally allowed event. When the Vice President resigns, it triggers a series of formal and procedural changes that impact both the legislative and executive branches. But what does it truly mean for Indian governance? What are the after-effects, and what privileges does a former Vice President continue to enjoy?
Let’s explore the constitutional provisions, impact, future changes, and benefits after the resignation of the Vice President of India.
📜 Constitutional Provision for Resignation
According to Article 67(b) of the Indian Constitution, the Vice President may resign by writing under his hand addressed to the President of India.
🔹 There is no requirement for parliamentary approval.
🔹 The resignation takes effect as soon as the President accepts it.
Article 67 – Term of Office of Vice President:
“The Vice President may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office.”
🔁 What Happens After the Vice President Resigns?
Upon resignation, the office of the Vice President becomes vacant, and several procedural actions follow:
1. Temporary Arrangements
- The Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha or any senior member may temporarily preside over the Rajya Sabha.
- However, the Vice President’s duties as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are immediately affected.
2. Election of New Vice President
- According to Article 68(2), a new Vice President must be elected within six months from the date of vacancy.
- The Election Commission of India (ECI) is responsible for conducting the election.
3. Acting Role in President’s Absence
- In the absence of the Vice President, if the President’s post becomes vacant, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) may act as President temporarily, as the VP would not be available.
🏛️ Impact on Indian Politics & Parliament
➤ Rajya Sabha Leadership Disruption
The Vice President acts as the ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha. Resignation affects:
- Smooth functioning of the Upper House.
- Parliamentary decorum and debates, which depend on the neutrality and effectiveness of the Chairman.
➤ Political Repercussions
- If the resignation is politically motivated, it may hint at shifts in alliances or possible future ambitions (like contesting for the presidency or taking up active politics).
🤔 Why Might a Vice President Resign?
- Health or Age-related Issues
- Voluntary Retirement from Public Life
- Political Aspirations (such as contesting for the office of the President or rejoining party politics)
- Disagreement with Government Policies (symbolic gesture)
🧾 Benefits After Resignation: What the Ex-Vice President Gets
Even after resignation, a former Vice President is entitled to certain benefits and privileges, some of which are lifelong:
1. Pension
- A fixed monthly pension of ₹4 lakh per month (as per The Vice-President’s Pension Act, 1997).
2. Residential Accommodation
- Rent-free official accommodation in Delhi or reimbursement of house rent for a private residence.
3. Staff and Office
- Free services of personal staff including a Private Secretary, Peon, and Driver.
- Office expenses are also covered to an extent.
4. Medical Facilities
- CGHS (Central Government Health Scheme) benefits for the former VP and spouse.
5. Travel Allowance
- Entitled to free air/train travel anywhere in India for official or personal reasons.
6. Security
- Continued security cover, depending on threat perception.
7. Diplomatic Privileges
- Protocol and ceremonial honors at official events and state functions.
🔍 Real-Life Example (If applicable)
The Vice President of India (for example, Jagdeep Dhankhar, elected in 2022) resign in mid-term:
- A new Vice President must be elected within 6 months.
- His resignation indicate either a shift towards contesting for President or returning to active politics in his home state (Rajasthan).
📚 Relevance for Competitive Exams
This topic is important for:
- UPSC / State PCS
- Polity Section of SSC, Railways, NDA
- Judicial Exams
- CLAT, AILET and Law entrance papers
Key Questions for Exams:
- Under which Article can the Vice President resign?
- Who conducts elections for the new Vice President?
- What are the functions of the Vice President as Rajya Sabha Chairman?
- What benefits does an ex-Vice President receive?
🧠 FAQs
Q. Who accepts the resignation of the Vice President of India?
A. The President of India.
Q. Within how much time should a new Vice President be elected?
A. Within 6 months of the vacancy.
Q. Can the Vice President be re-elected after resignation?
A. Yes, there is no bar on re-election unless disqualified.
Q. Does resignation disqualify a Vice President from other offices?
A. No. He/she may still be eligible for future constitutional or political roles.
Q. Is resignation of the Vice President common?
A. No. It is a rare occurrence in Indian political history.
✍️ Conclusion
The resignation of the Vice President of India is not just a ceremonial event—it has constitutional, political, and procedural implications. While it causes a temporary leadership gap in the Rajya Sabha, the Constitution provides a clear framework to fill the vacancy efficiently. Moreover, the former Vice President continues to enjoy dignified benefits, acknowledging the high status of the office.
Understanding this process not only enhances your knowledge of Indian polity but also prepares you well for upcoming competitive exams and civil service interviews.
