Article 66 — Election of Vice-President | Animated & Voice-Enabled Experience
(1) The Vice-President shall be elected by the members of an electoral college consisting of the members of both Houses of Parliament in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote and the voting at such election shall be by secret ballot.
(2) The Vice-President shall not be a member of either House of Parliament or of a House of the Legislature of any State, and if a member of either House of Parliament or of a House of the Legislature of any State be elected Vice-President, he shall be deemed to have vacated his seat in that House on the date on which he enters upon his office as Vice-President.
(3) No person shall be eligible for election as Vice-President unless he is a citizen of India, has completed the age of thirty-five years, and is qualified for election as a member of the Council of States.
(4) A person shall not be eligible for election as Vice-President if he holds any office of profit under the Government of India or the Government of any State or under any local or other authority subject to the control of any of the said Governments.
💡 Interpretation: The Vice-President is elected by an electoral college of both houses of Parliament (MPs) via secret ballot, using proportional representation (single transferable vote). Essential qualifications include Indian citizenship, minimum 35 years, and eligibility for Rajya Sabha membership.
Article 66 establishes the mechanism for electing the Vice-President of India — the second-highest constitutional office. Unlike the President, who is elected by an Electoral College comprising MPs and MLAs, the Vice-President is elected exclusively by members of Parliament (both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha). The system of proportional representation by single transferable vote ensures minority representation and fairness. This article also lays down disqualification norms, including the ‘office of profit’ clause and age criteria (35 years). The Vice-President also acts as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, making this article pivotal for legislative balance. The provision enforces separation of powers by ensuring the Vice-President vacates any prior legislative seat upon election. Understanding Article 66 is essential for UPSC, law students, and every citizen interested in India's democratic fabric.