Background
The Vice President of India holds a crucial role as the ex-officio chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, which is the upper house of the Indian Parliament. As the speaker of this house, the Vice President is responsible for maintaining order and decorum during sessions, facilitating discussions, and ensuring that parliamentary procedures are followed. In addition to these legislative responsibilities, the Vice President acts as a vital link between the President of India and the Parliament. If a vacancy arises in the presidency, the Vice President assumes the role of acting President for up to six months, during which they carry out all presidential duties and functions.
The election process for the Vice President is conducted by the Election Commission of India, and it follows a system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote. This ensures that the elected Vice President reflects the support of a majority while upholding the democratic principles on which the electoral system is based. Serving a term of five years, the Vice President can be re-elected for subsequent terms, thereby contributing to both continuity and stability in the office.
In the 2017 Indian Vice Presidential election, the outgoing Vice President was Mohammad Hamid Ansari, who had a distinguished tenure since his initial election in 2007, followed by his re-election in 2012. Ansari's term came to an end on 10 August 2017, leaving a significant mark on the role, particularly through his commitment to upholding democratic values and fostering healthy debates within the Parliament. The Election Commission of India scheduled the election for 5 August 2017, with results to be declared on the same day, creating an atmosphere of anticipation as various political parties prepared to nominate their candidates for this esteemed position. The election reflects not only the electoral dynamics within the government but also the ongoing political strategies and alignments among parties, signaling the importance of this office in influencing the legislative process and governance in India.
Election Process of the Vice President
The Vice President of India is elected through a unique electoral process that relies on an electoral college composed of both houses of the Indian Parliament. This includes the elected members of the Rajya Sabha, which is the upper house, and the Lok Sabha, the lower house. An interesting aspect of this election is the inclusion of nominated members from both houses who are also eligible to participate in the voting process. This provision ensures a broader representation of various segments of society within the College of Electors.
In the case of the 2017 Indian Vice Presidential election, the composition of the electoral college was quite significant. The Rajya Sabha had 233 elected members alongside an additional 12 nominated members, providing a total of 245 members from this house contributing to the electoral process. Meanwhile, the Lok Sabha had a total of 543 elected members. Altogether, the electoral college's diversity offered a rich tapestry of political thought and representation, crucial for the selection of a Vice President who would complement the executive branch of the government.
The mechanics of the voting process are also noteworthy. Members of Parliament (MPs) cast their votes using a secret ballot, which helps maintain the confidentiality of their choices. This is facilitated by the use of a "special pen," designed specifically for voting, which helps ensure that the process is secure and the results are accurately recorded. The secret ballot is a vital feature that underscores the democratic nature of the election, allowing MPs to express their preferences without fear of retribution or influence.
Overall, the process of electing the Vice President in India is a well-structured procedure that reflects the country’s commitment to democratic principles. It not only emphasizes the importance of both houses of Parliament but also reinforces the role of nominated members, showcasing a comprehensive approach to governance and representation in the highest echelons of political power. The 2017 election was particularly significant, given the broader implications of the elected Vice President’s policies and position in the Indian political landscape.
Candidates and Requirements
In the context of the 2017 Indian vice presidential election, candidates are required to fulfill specific criteria to be eligible for nomination. Each candidate must secure the backing of a minimum of 20 electors who act as proposers, along with an additional 20 supporters known as seconders. This requirement ensures that candidates have substantial backing before advancing in the election process. Furthermore, a monetary component is also stipulated, with candidates required to submit a security deposit of ₹15,000 (approximately $233 at the time). This deposit acts as a safeguard against frivolous candidacies; if the candidate fails to secure a specified percentage of the vote, the deposit is forfeited.
In the 2017 election, two notable candidates emerged from the political alliances prominent in Indian politics. The first candidate was nominated by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), a coalition led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The NDA has historically held a significant influence in Indian politics, especially in the years leading up to the 2017 election. In contrast, the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) put forth the second candidate, which consists mainly of the Indian National Congress and its allies. The rivalry between these two coalitions highlights the competitive nature of Indian electoral politics, particularly in high-stakes elections such as that for the vice presidency.
The vice presidential election serves as a crucial component of India's parliamentary system, where the vice president also acts as the ex-officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of Parliament. This role is vital for facilitating discussions and maintaining order during parliamentary sessions. Elections for this esteemed position attract considerable attention, as the outcome often reflects broader political dynamics within the country. The engagement of two major political alliances indicates the significance of the election not just for the individual candidates, but for their respective parties and coalitions as they navigate the intricate landscape of Indian politics.
NDA Candidate
In the 2017 Indian vice presidential election, Venkaiah Naidu emerged as the candidate nominated by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). At the time, he held the significant portfolios of Minister of Information and Broadcasting as well as Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation. His political career was highlighted by his prior role as the president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), showcasing his extensive experience and involvement in Indian politics. Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly endorsed Naidu, emphasizing that he was a "fitting candidate" for the prestigious vice-presidential role.
The leadership within the Bharatiya Janata Party regarded Naidu’s potential victory as a crucial morale booster, particularly for the party's presence in the south Indian states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The decision to support Naidu was not limited to NDA allies; it also attracted backing from other regional parties such as the YSR Congress Party, AIADMK, and Telangana Rashtra Samiti, thereby expanding his coalition for the election. The cross-party support was seen as a significant indication of Naidu's appeal and the alliances forming around him.
Analyses from various media outlets highlighted Naidu's strong position in the election, stating that he was projected to receive a substantial number of votes—approximately 489—far exceeding the 394 votes needed for a win. This anticipated support reflected the strategic importance of consolidating support in the southern region, which is often viewed as a key battleground for parties in Indian politics. As the election unfolded, Naidu's candidacy signified both a continuation of the NDA's influence and an effort to bolster the BJP's representation in southern India.
UPA Candidate Gopalkrishna Gandhi
In the 2017 Indian vice presidential election, Gopalkrishna Gandhi emerged as the candidate nominated by the United Progressive Alliance (UPA). His nomination was backed by a coalition of 18 opposition parties, showcasing a significant collective effort to present a unified front against the ruling government. Gandhi is not only a well-respected figure in political circles but also holds a distinguished lineage; he is the grandson of two pivotal personalities in India's struggle for independence: Mahatma Gandhi and C. Rajagopalachari. This association with such significant historical figures has added a layer of gravitas to his candidacy.
Gopalkrishna Gandhi's career spans numerous realms, including diplomacy and governance. As a former envoy, he represented India in several countries, including Sri Lanka, Norway, and South Africa. His diplomatic experience has equipped him with a nuanced understanding of international relations, a quality that would be invaluable in the vice presidency. Additionally, he served as the Governor of West Bengal, a role in which he had to navigate complex political landscapes, notably during the tumultuous period marked by the Nandigram violence. This experience has not only shaped his administrative capabilities but has also instilled a deep understanding of governance in challenging situations.
The support for Gandhi's candidacy came from key political players, including the Indian National Congress, Janata Dal (United), Rashtriya Janata Dal, Nationalist Congress Party, and the Left Front, indicating a broad spectrum of ideological affiliations coming together. This coalition aimed to challenge the dominance of the incumbent government and reflects the dynamic nature of Indian politics, where strategic alliances often play a crucial role. With his extensive background and support from various political entities, Gopalkrishna Gandhi represented a significant challenge to the ruling party, embodying the aspirations of a diverse segment of the political landscape in India.
Results Overview
In the 2017 Indian vice presidential election, Venkaiah Naidu was elected as the 13th Vice President of India. Following a decisive victory, he was sworn into office on August 11, 2017. The election took place in a parliamentary setting within the context of a partially filled legislature, as five out of the 790 parliamentary seats were vacant at the time.
Candidate Profiles
Venkaiah Naidu, born on July 1, 1948, hails from Nellore in Andhra Pradesh. His political career spanning several decades includes various high-profile positions within the government, such as Minister of Information and Broadcasting and Minister of Urban Development from 2014 to 2017. He also served as the Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation and played a crucial role as the President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from 2002 to 2004. Naidu represented Karnataka in the Rajya Sabha from 1998 to 2016 and was also a member of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly earlier in his career.
His opponent, Gopalkrishna Gandhi, was born on April 22, 1945, in Delhi. He is known for serving as the 24th Governor of West Bengal from 2004 to 2009 and brings a wealth of experience to the political arena as an independent candidate in the vice presidential election.
Election Results
The election results displayed a clear preference among the electors. Venkaiah Naidu, representing the BJP, secured a total of 516 electoral votes, accounting for a substantial 67.89% of the votes cast. In contrast, Gopalkrishna Gandhi garnered 244 votes, translating to 32.11%. The total number of valid votes cast was 760, with only 11 invalid votes recorded, reflecting a high level of engagement among electors. The turnout for the election was recorded at 771, which represents an impressive 98.22% participation, while abstentions accounted for 1.78%.
The election showcased the strength of the BJP and underscored the effectiveness of Naidu's political experience. His extensive background and previous governmental roles positioned him as a strong candidate, contributing to the party's robust support during the election process.