Art. 91 Part V: The Union

Power of the Deputy Chairman or Other Person to Perform the Duties of the Office of, or to Act as, Chairman

Exact text — Constitution of India

(1) While the office of Chairman is vacant, or during any period when the Vice-President is acting as, or discharging the functions of, President, the duties of the office shall be performed by the Deputy Chairman, or, if the office of Deputy Chairman is also vacant, by such member of the Council of States as the President may appoint for the purpose.

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

This Article provides a clear chain of succession for presiding over the Rajya Sabha — if the Chairman's role (held by the Vice-President) is vacant or the Vice-President is temporarily acting as President instead, the Deputy Chairman steps in; and if even that role is vacant, the President can appoint any Rajya Sabha member to temporarily perform the duties.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This ensures the Rajya Sabha always has someone able to preside over its proceedings, even in the relatively unusual circumstance where both the Chairman and Deputy Chairman positions are simultaneously unavailable.

Read alongside this one

Art. 89 — The Chairman and Deputy Chairman of the Council of States

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 91

What happens if both the Chairman and Deputy Chairman positions are vacant at the same time?

The President can appoint any Rajya Sabha member to temporarily perform the Chairman's duties, ensuring the House always has a functioning presiding officer.

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The text above reproduces Article 91 of the Constitution of India as amended to date, for general educational reference. It is public-domain legislative text, but we recommend cross-checking the authoritative version at legislative.gov.in or india.gov.in before relying on it for a legal matter. The explanation, examples and FAQs are general information, not legal advice — consult a qualified advocate for guidance on your specific situation.