Context

• 50 opposition MPs have signed a resolution to bring a no-confidence motion against Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar under the Indian Constitution.
• The opposition's proposal is based on the following points:
• According to opposition MPs, the opposition lacks space and time to express its views.
• The opposition argues that the microphone of Congress president and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge is often switched off.

Vice President- a constitutional post:

• The office of the Vice-President of India is mentioned under Part V (Executive) of the Constitution of India.
• Articles 63-73 deal with the qualification, election and removal of the Vice-President of India.

Tenure:

• The Vice President holds office for a term of five years from the date on which he assumes office.

Qualifications:

• He should be a citizen of India.
• He should have completed the age of 35 years.
• He should be eligible to become a Rajya Sabha member.

Functions:

• Ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha: In this capacity, his powers and functions are similar to those of the Speaker of Lok Sabha.
• Acts as President in case of vacancy: The Vice President acts as President when a vacancy occurs in the office of the President due to the following reasons- resignation, removal and death or otherwise
• Discharge of the functions of the President: When the President is unable to discharge his functions due to absence, ill health or any other cause.
• The maximum period for which the Vice President can act as President is only six months, within which it is mandatory to elect a new President.

Dismissal:

• Article 67: Talks about the term of office of the Vice President and the procedure for his removal by the Parliament.
• A Vice President can be removed from office by a resolution of the Rajya Sabha passed by a majority of all the then members of the Rajya Sabha (Council of State).
• This resolution for the removal of the Vice President must be agreed to by the Lok Sabha.
• Unlike the President, the Vice President cannot be impeached but removed from the office of Vice President.

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