Which of the following is/are true regarding term of office of Vice-President (VP) of India?

1) Chairman of Rajya Sabha holds office for a term of six years.

2) A formal impeachment is not required for the removal of the VP of India.

a. Only 1

b. Only 2

c. Both 1 and 2

d. Neither 1 nor 2

ANSWER: Both 1 and 2

Explanation:

The Vice-President is chairman of Rajya Sabha.

He holds office for a term of five years from the date on which he enters upon his office.

However, he can resign from his office at any time by addressing the resignation letter to the President.

He can also be removed from the office before completion of his term.

A formal impeachment is not required for his removal. He can be removed by a resolution of the Rajya Sabha passed by an absolute majority (i.e., a majority of the total members of the House) and agreed to by the Lok Sabha.

But, no such resolution can be moved unless at least 14 days’ advance notice has been given.

Notably, no ground has been mentioned in the Constitution for his removal.

The Vice-President can hold office beyond his term of five years until his successor assumes charge.

He is also eligible for re-election to that office. He may be elected for any number of terms (Dr S Radhakrishnan was elected for a 2nd term).

Vacancy in Office -

A vacancy in the Vice-President’s office can be due to -

a. On the expiry of his tenure of five years.

b. By his resignation.

c. On his removal.

d. By his death - Krishna Kant was the first Vice-President to die in office.

e. Otherwise, for example, when he becomes disqualified to hold office or when his election is declared void.

When the vacancy is going to be caused by the expiration of the term of the sitting vice-president, an election to fill the vacancy must be held before the expiration of the term.

If the office falls vacant by resignation, removal, death or otherwise, then election to fill the vacancy should be held as soon as possible after the occurrence of the vacancy.

The newly - elected vice-president remains in office for a full term of five years from the date he assumes charge of his office.