Removing Rajya Sabha Chairman: Is it Feasible?

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. The Opposition submitted a no-confidence motion against Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar.
2. Dhankhar faces accusations of partisan bias in his conduct.
3. The Constitution outlines a rigorous process for removal, requiring both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha approval.
4. The NDA holds a significant majority in both Houses, making Dhankhar’s removal unlikely.
5. The Opposition’s move appears largely symbolic.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

The attempt to remove Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar has ignited a political firestorm. The Opposition’s no-confidence motion, backed by over 70 MPs, challenges the Chairman’s impartiality. But is his removal truly feasible? The Constitution sets a high bar for such a move.

Opposition Allegations

Opposition MPs accuse Dhankhar of bias, citing instances of interrupting speeches, particularly those of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and limiting debate on crucial issues. They allege violations of parliamentary norms, including instances where Kharge’s microphone was switched off. The INDIA bloc also highlighted allegedly personal remarks made by Dhankhar against members.

Constitutional Provisions

Unlike Presidential impeachment (Article 61), the process for removing the Vice President (ex-officio Rajya Sabha Chairman) is detailed in Articles 67(b), 92, and 100. A 14-day notice is required before the motion can be tabled in the Rajya Sabha. Passage requires an absolute majority of the Rajya Sabha’s total membership. Subsequently, the Lok Sabha must approve the resolution with a simple majority. Only after both Houses’ approval is the Chairman removed.

Numbers Game

The NDA currently holds approximately 125 seats in the Rajya Sabha, compared to the Opposition’s roughly 112. In the Lok Sabha, the NDA enjoys a commanding lead with 293 seats against the Opposition’s 238. This lopsided arithmetic makes Dhankhar’s removal highly improbable.

Conclusion

While the Opposition’s move highlights important concerns about parliamentary procedures, the sheer number advantage held by the NDA renders the attempt to oust Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar highly unlikely to succeed.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

The Opposition’s effort to remove Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar faces an uphill battle due to the Constitution’s stringent removal process and the NDA’s substantial majority in both Houses of Parliament. This event underscores the significance of parliamentary majorities in India’s political landscape.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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