Part V - The Union • Article

Article 65 Simplified: The Vice-President to act as President or to discharge his functions during casual vacancies in the office, or during the absence, of President

If the President dies, resigns, or is removed, the Vice-President immediately steps up to act as the President until a new one is elected. If the President is just sick or away, the Vice-President temporarily discharges their duties. During this time, they get the President's salary, benefits, and powers, and stop running the Rajya Sabha.

Official Text

(1) In the event of the occurrence of any vacancy in the office of the President by reason of his death, resignation or removal, or otherwise, the Vice-President shall act as President until the date on which a new President elected in accordance with the provisions of this Chapter to fill such vacancy enters upon his office. (2) When the President is unable to discharge his functions owing to absence, illness or any other cause, the Vice-President shall discharge his functions until the date on which the President resumes his duties. (3) The Vice-President shall, during, and in respect of, the period while he is so acting as, or discharging the functions of, President, have all the powers and immunities of the President and be entitled to such emoluments, allowances and privileges as may be determined by Parliament by law and, until provision in that behalf is so made, such emoluments, allowances and privileges as are specified in the Second Schedule.

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

If the President dies or leaves their job, the Vice-President takes over and becomes the acting President until a new one is chosen. If the President is just sick or traveling, the Vice-President does the President's work for a little while. During this time, they get the President's power and pay.

Student Mode

Authorizes the Vice-President to: (1) Act as President during permanent vacancies (death, resignation, removal) until a new President is elected, and (2) Discharge Presidential functions during temporary vacancies (illness, absence, or other causes). While doing so, they possess all powers, immunities, and emoluments of the President.

Example

In 1969, when President Zakir Husain passed away, Vice-President V.V. Giri stepped in as acting President under Article 65.

Key Takeaway

The Vice-President is the constitutional safety net to prevent any gap in the nation's leadership.

FAQs

Who acts as Rajya Sabha Chairman when the Vice-President acts as President?

The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha performs the duties of the Chairman.

Can the acting President sign bills into law?

Yes, an acting President has all the constitutional powers of the President, including signing bills, issuing ordinances, and granting pardons.

Quiz

Who acts as President of India if the President dies in office and the election of a new President is pending?

Answer: The Vice-President

When the Vice-President acts as President, they receive the salary of:

Answer: The President of India