The Vice-President of India, under Article 64 of the Constitution, serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. As presiding officer of the Upper House, he ensures orderly functioning, neutrality in decision-making, and protection of the federal character envisioned by the framers of the Constitution.

Role as Chairman of Rajya Sabha

1. Presiding Authority: Maintains discipline, order, and decorum in debates.He decides who speaks and manages interruptions.

   • Example: crucial during disruptions in the passage of farm bills (2020).

2. Neutral Arbiter: Since he is not a member of the House, he is expected to be impartial.

   • Example: Dr. S. Radhakrishnan set a benchmark in this role during the early years.

3. Procedural Authority: Admits or rejects questions, motions, and privilege notices. His discretion can significantly influence the House’s agenda.

4. Casting Vote: Under Article 100(1), he casts a deciding vote in case of a tie, ensuring legislative continuity.

5. Referral to Committees: Refers bills to parliamentary committees for detailed scrutiny, strengthening deliberation (e.g., labour code bills, data protection bill).

6. Guardian of Federal Balance: Ensures that state interests are adequately represented in a House designed as the “Council of States.”

Challenges Faced

1. Frequent Disruptions: PRS data shows Rajya Sabha lost ~30% of its time (2018–22) due to protests and adjournments, limiting meaningful debate.

2. Allegations of Partisanship: Disallowing discussions (e.g., Pegasus spyware, 2021) has invited charges of bias.

3. Weaker Powers than Lok Sabha Speaker: Chairman Cannot decide disqualification cases under the Tenth Schedule.

4. Declining Quality of Debate: Vice-President Hamid Ansari (2017) lamented growing disruptions and lack of substantive deliberation.

5. Pressure on Committee Referrals: Important bills (e.g., Farm Bills, 2020) were passed without being referred to committees despite Opposition demands.

6. Balancing Federalism and Politics: Ensuring smaller states’ voices amidst dominance of national parties is an ongoing challenge.

The Vice-President, as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, plays a pivotal role in sustaining parliamentary democracy. However, his effectiveness is often constrained by political polarisation and procedural limitations. Strengthening parliamentary culture, committee scrutiny, and cooperation among members is vital for the Rajya Sabha to truly function as the House of Elders envisioned by the Constitution.