The Vice-President shall hold office for a term of five years from the date on which he enters upon his office.
The Vice-President may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office.
The Vice-President may be removed from his office by a resolution of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) passed by a majority of all the then members of the Council and agreed to by the House of the People (Lok Sabha). However, no resolution for removal shall be moved unless at least fourteen days' notice has been given.
The Vice-President shall, notwithstanding the expiration of his term, continue to hold office until his successor enters upon his office. Any resignation or removal shall cause a vacancy to be filled as soon as possible.
Article 67 governs the term (5 years), resignation mechanism, procedure for removal (special majority in Rajya Sabha + agreement by Lok Sabha), and continuation until successor assumes office. It ensures stability and constitutional continuity for the office of Vice-President, who also acts as the ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha.
๐ In-depth Analysis & Constitutional Significance
Article 67 defines the lifespan and procedural aspects of the Vice-President's office. Unlike the President, the Vice-President can be removed by a resolution of the Rajya Sabha passed by an effective majority (majority of all members), followed by Lok Sabha's agreement. This provision ensures that the Vice-President, being the Chairperson of Rajya Sabha, remains accountable to the House. The 14-day notice requirement ensures fairness.
The five-year term aligns with the President's term, though the Vice-President continues in office even after term expiry until the successor is electedโthis avoids a constitutional vacuum. Resignation is addressed to the President, maintaining hierarchical clarity. Article 67, together with Article 66 (election), forms the bedrock of India's second-highest constitutional office, crucial for legislative coordination and presidential succession (Article 65).
Landmark context: The removal provision under Article 67(c) has been a subject of scholarly discussionโit balances parliamentary supremacy with constitutional dignity. The office continues to symbolize neutrality in Rajya Sabha proceedings. Understanding this article is vital for civil services aspirants, law students, and citizens appreciating India's parliamentary democracy.