Question

Who presides over a meeting of Rajya Sabha in the absence of the Vice-president of India?

Answer 1

Hint: The Vice President of India is also called the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. He presides over the sessions of Rajya Sabha.

Complete step by step answer:
The Deputy Chairman takes care of the day-to-day matters of Rajya Sabha in the absence of the ex-officio Chairman. It is a constitutional position created under Article 89 of the Indian Constitution. It specifies the election process of the deputy chairman as well. According to the article, Rajya Sabha shall choose one of its MPs to hold the position of Deputy Chairman every time the position becomes vacant. Thus, the Deputy Chairman is elected from amongst its members by the Rajya Sabha itself.

The Deputy Chairman vacates his office if he/she ceases to be a member of the Rajya Sabha or resigns by writing to the Chairman. He/she can also be removed by a resolution passed by the members of the Rajya Sabha. However, such a resolution can be moved only after giving 14 days’ advance notice. The Deputy Chairman performs the duties of the Chairman when the office of the chairman is vacant. He/she also acts as the Chairman when the Vice-President is absent from the sitting of the House. The Deputy Chairman plays a critical role in ensuring that the house is running smoothly.

Note: The Deputy Chairman in no way is inferior to the Chairman of Rajya Sabha. He/she has all the powers that the Chairman of Rajya Sabha possesses.