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Thenewsdose.com
New Delhi, August,1 2025,UPDATED:4.40PM
The stage is set for the election to the country’s second-highest constitutional office, with the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Friday announcing the schedule for the Vice Presidential election. With this announcement, the ECI has formally triggered the process for one of the most significant posts in Indian constitutional democracy — the Vice President of India, who also serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Key Dates Announced by EC
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Issue of Notification: August 7
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Last Date for Filing Nominations: August 21
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Scrutiny of Nominations: August 22
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Last Date for Withdrawal: August 25
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Polling (if required): September 9 (Counting on the same day)
Political Equations at Play
The Opposition INDIA bloc has already declared its intent to field a joint candidate for the election, signalling another possible face-off with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies. The BJP, sources said, will initiate consultations with its coalition partners next week before announcing its nominee.
Vacancy Trigger
The election has been necessitated following the resignation of incumbent Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, who stepped down on July 21. Dhankhar had assumed office on August 11, 2022, succeeding M. Venkaiah Naidu. Before taking oath as Vice President, Dhankhar had visited Rajghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi, in keeping with constitutional tradition.
Five-Year Term for New VP
The newly elected Vice President will serve a full five-year term from the day of assuming charge. If the election is contested, members of both Houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) will cast their votes through a secret ballot, as prescribed under the election rules.
With the poll schedule now in place, political activity is expected to intensify in the coming weeks, as both the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition bloc work to consolidate support and agree on their respective candidates.
