Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

The Vice-President of India holds the second-highest constitutional office in the country and serves ex-officio as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Art 64). In this capacity, the Vice-President plays a crucial role in upholding federalism and ensuring parliamentary discipline.

Body

Role of the Ex-Officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha in Upholding Federalism:

• Representation of State Interests: By overseeing discussions, the Vice-President as ex-officio chairman prevents central interests from overshadowing state concerns, especially on issues like taxation (GST) and resource distribution, thereby maintaining a federal balance.
• Casting Vote: Article 100 of the Indian Constitution grants the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha the casting vote in case of a tie during voting.
  • This power ensures decisions are made efficiently without deadlocks, preventing central dominance and preserving state autonomy in the legislative process. s.
• Use of Special Powers: The Rajya Sabha possesses unique federal powers, such as legislating on State List subjects (Article 249) or creating All India Services (Article 312).
  • The Chairman, as presiding officer, plays a key role in facilitating resolutions under these provisions with procedural neutrality.
• Addressing Federal Concerns: In his role as Chairman, the Vice-President plays a crucial part in mediating debates on key federal issues, such as the Inter-State Council, Article 356 (President’s Rule), and decisions affecting state autonomy.

Role of the Ex-Officio Chairman in Upholding Parliamentary Discipline:

• Maintaining Order in the House: Under Rule 256 of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Rajya Sabha, the Chairman can suspend a member for the remainder of the session if the member's conduct is grossly disorderly or disregards the authority of the Chair.
• Preventing Obstructionism: The Rajya Sabha has faced criticism for obstructionism, such as debates on the Land Acquisition Bill and GST, the Chairman’s neutral and balanced approach is key to enabling constructive debate while preventing legislative deadlock.
• Power Related to Disqualification: Article 103 of the Constitution empowers the Chairman to decide on the disqualification of members under the 10th Schedule (anti-defection law).
  • The Chairman’s role in this capacity is crucial for ensuring that the integrity of the Rajya Sabha is maintained by ensuring that members who defect from their political party are disqualified according to the law.
• Committee Referrals and Deliberation: Given the fall in productivity in recent years (74% from 2014–2021, even as low as 40% in 2018), the Chairman can encourage referring bills to parliamentary committees for thorough analysis and avoid rushed legislation.

Conclusion

As emphasized by the Sarkaria and Punchhi Commissions, the Rajya Sabha plays a vital role in federal balance, and the Vice-President, as Chairman, ensures it remains a space for mature debate, regional inclusion, and constitutional oversight, core to a healthy federal democracy.