**Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns: Urgent Election for New Vice President Required**
With Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation as Vice President, an election to appoint his successor must be conducted “as soon as possible.” According to Clause 2 of Article 68 of the Constitution, a vacancy in the vice presidency due to death, resignation, or removal necessitates a prompt election to fill the position.
The newly elected vice president will serve a full five-year term starting from the date they assume office. However, the Constitution does not specify who will fulfill the vice president’s duties in the event of their resignation or death before the term ends, nor during periods when the vice president is acting as the President of India.
As the second-highest constitutional office in the country, the vice president serves a five-year term but may remain in office beyond this period until a successor is appointed. During any vacancy, the responsibilities of the vice president as chairperson of the Rajya Sabha are assumed by the deputy chairperson or another authorized member, as designated by the President of India.
The vice president can resign by submitting a resignation letter to the President, which takes effect upon acceptance. The vice president also serves as the ex-officio chairperson of the Rajya Sabha and does not hold any other profit-generating office.
When the vice president is acting as President, they do not perform the duties of the Rajya Sabha chairperson and are not entitled to the salary or allowances associated with that role.
According to Article 66 of the Constitution, the vice president is elected by an Electoral College comprising members of both Houses of Parliament, utilizing a system of proportional representation through a single transferable vote. Eligibility for the vice presidency requires the individual to be an Indian citizen, at least 35 years old, and qualified to be a member of the Rajya Sabha. Individuals holding any office of profit under the Government of India, state governments, or local authorities are disqualified from election.
In summary, the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar has triggered the need for a swift election to fill the vice presidential vacancy, ensuring the continuity of this vital constitutional role.
**FAQ**
**What happens if the Vice President resigns?**
If the Vice President resigns, an election must be held promptly to fill the vacancy, as stipulated by the Constitution.
