Vice President of India acts as the ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha under article 64 of the constitution. In this capacity, his powers and functions are similar to those of the Speaker of Lok Sabha. He also resembles the American vice-president, who also acts as the Chairman of the Senate – the Upper House of the American legislature.
As a chairman of Rajya Sabha:
- Guardian of the prestige and dignity of the House. His impartial and fair judgment enhances the reputation and prestige of his office.
- Principal spokesman of the House and represents its collective voice to the outside world.
- Exercises only a casting vote in the case of equality of votes
Case study on role of Active VP:
- He can avoid the delay in the matter of disqualification under 10th schedule and disqualification. i.e. - Mr Sharad Yadav and Ali Anwar Ansari.
- He can ask for Periodic report on duration of meetings held, attendance of members
- He can order a comprehensive study of the secretariat in order to make it more transparent and accountable.
- He can advance the timing for zero hour and retain question hour at 12 noon so that time can be utilized wisely.
- He can release guidelines on social media and suggest reliance on digital tools.
- He can dedicate One hour to discuss the selects committee reports.
Recently, Rajya Sabha Productivity increased by 70% and house held 261 sittings in 13 sessions and passed 177 bills and credit goes to the role of VP.