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The Historical Evolution of the Office of the Vice President in India and Its Changing Role

The office of the Vice President of India is a crucial constitutional position that has evolved over time. While initially conceived as a ceremonial role, its functions and influence have grown, especially in its capacity as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. This article examines the historical development of the Vice President’s office, its…

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The Office of the Vice President of India: Ceremonial or Functional?

Introduction The Vice President of India is the second-highest constitutional office in the country, acting as a link between the executive and legislative branches. However, a long-standing debate persists regarding whether the role is merely ceremonial or if it holds substantive responsibilities. The Indian Constitution, historical precedents, and political developments shape the understanding of this…

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Removal of the Vice President of India: Procedure and Accountability

Introduction The Vice President of India holds a significant constitutional position, serving as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and the second-highest dignitary in the country. While the Vice President does not have extensive executive powers, the Indian Constitution provides a structured procedure for their removal, ensuring accountability and maintaining the integrity of the…

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The Vice President as Rajya Sabha Chairman: Role, Challenges, and Reforms

Introduction The Vice President of India, as per the Constitution, serves a dual role—primarily as the second-highest constitutional authority after the President and, more significantly, as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. This role, enshrined in Article 64 of the Indian Constitution, gives the Vice President the responsibility of presiding over the Upper House…

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Vice President of India: Powers, Functions, and Role in Rajya Sabha

The Vice President of India holds a significant constitutional position, serving as the second-highest authority in the country. The office of the Vice President is modeled on the lines of the American Vice Presidency but has distinct features that align with India’s parliamentary system. The Vice President plays a dual role—he is the ex-officio Chairman…

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Election Process of the Vice President of India and Its Differences from the President’s Election

Introduction The Vice President of India holds a significant position in the country’s political framework. As the second-highest constitutional office, the Vice President acts as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and serves as a standby in case of a vacancy in the office of the President. The process of electing the Vice President…

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Ensuring Free and Fair Elections in India: The Role and Challenges of the Election Commission

Introduction Elections are the foundation of a democratic system, ensuring that power is vested in the hands of the people. The Election Commission of India (ECI) plays a crucial role in conducting elections in a free, fair, and transparent manner. Established under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution, the ECI is responsible for administering elections…

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73rd & 74th Amendments: Impact on Local Governance in India

Introduction Local self-government is an essential pillar of democracy, ensuring grassroots participation in governance and development. Recognizing its significance, India enacted the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments in 1992, which institutionalized Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). These amendments aimed to decentralize power, enhance local governance, and promote participatory democracy. This essay…

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List of All Amendments of the Indian Constitution

1st Amendment Act, 1951 2nd Amendment Act, 1952 3rd Amendment Act, 1954 4th Amendment Act, 1955 5th Amendment Act, 1955 6th Amendment Act, 1956 7th Amendment Act, 1956 8th Amendment Act, 1960 9th Amendment Act, 1960 10th Amendment Act, 1961 11th Amendment Act, 1961 12th Amendment Act, 1962 13th Amendment Act, 1962 14th Amendment Act,…

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The Basic Structure Doctrine in the Indian Constitution: Significance and Judicial Evolution

Introduction The Basic Structure Doctrine is one of the most significant principles in Indian constitutional law. It serves as a safeguard against arbitrary amendments to the Constitution by preventing Parliament from altering the fundamental characteristics of the Constitution. This doctrine ensures that the core values, principles, and spirit of the Indian Constitution remain intact, even…

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