The President of India, officially known as the Rashtrapati, holds the most esteemed office as the head of state in the Republic of India. Every five years, the president is chosen through an indirect election by an electoral college comprising elected members from both houses of Parliament—the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha—and the legislative assemblies of all Indian states and the union territories of Delhi and Puducherry. Holding a revered position as the “First Citizen of India,” the president is also the de facto commander-in-chief of the Indian Armed Forces. There are no restrictions on the number of terms a president may serve, allowing re-election to this highest office.
Historical Context and First Presidency
India's journey to becoming a republic was marked by the election of its first president, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, on January 26, 1950. As a pivotal figure in India’s freedom struggle, Prasad set the precedent for the office, establishing the role of the president in a newly independent India. Rashtrapati Bhavan, the president’s official residence, was formerly the Viceroy’s residence during British rule and is now a symbol of Indian sovereignty.
In July 2022, Droupadi Murmu made history as the second woman to hold the office, following Pratibha Patil. Murmu’s election reflects India’s progress toward inclusivity, as she represents one of the marginalized communities of India, highlighting the office’s symbolic role in the social and cultural fabric of the nation.
Constitutional Basis: Articles 52-62
The powers, duties, and selection process of the president are enshrined in Articles 52-62 of the Indian Constitution. The vice president acts as the president’s deputy, elected solely by the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members, and holds the role of ex officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The vice president steps in as acting president during any absence, serving as an essential part of the executive structure.
Powers and Duties of the President of India
The president of India is vested with significant executive, legislative, financial, judicial, diplomatic, military, and emergency powers. While the president’s actions are guided by the prime minister and Council of Ministers, they remain crucial to maintaining the checks and balances within the Indian democratic framework. Let’s delve into each of these powers and their implications:
Executive Powers
The president's executive functions are exercised in the name of the Indian government. These responsibilities include:
- Appointment of the Prime Minister: Following general elections, the president appoints the leader of the majority party or coalition as the prime minister. Additionally, the president appoints the Council of Ministers upon the prime minister's advice.
- High-Level Appointments: The president appoints significant government officials such as the Attorney General, Comptroller and Auditor General, Election Commissioners (including the Chief Election Commissioner), Union Public Service Commission members, and governors of states and union territories.
Legislative Powers
The president plays a vital role in legislative processes and has several key powers:
- Session Summoning: The president can summon and prorogue sessions of Parliament and addresses Parliament at the beginning of the first session after every general election.
- Dissolution of Lok Sabha: The president can dissolve the Lok Sabha if the prime minister cannot demonstrate majority support, thus maintaining democratic accountability.
- Legislative Veto: The president can withhold assent to bills, effectively vetoing them or returning them to Parliament for reconsideration.
- Ordinances: During periods when Parliament is not in session, the president can issue ordinances that hold the force of law. However, these ordinances require subsequent approval by both houses to become permanent.
Financial Powers
The president’s financial authority ensures responsible management of India’s public resources:
- Finance Commission: The president appoints the chair and members of the Finance Commission, which distributes funds between the central and state governments.
- Contingency Fund: As controller of the Contingency Fund of India, the president can authorize necessary expenditures in emergencies.
- Financial Bills: Prior presidential approval is required before introducing certain financial bills in Parliament, emphasizing the office’s role in fiscal oversight.
Judicial Powers
The president holds significant judicial authority, including:
- Appointments of Judges: The president appoints all judges of the Supreme Court and high courts, including the Chief Justice of India.
- Grant of Pardons: The president has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, and respites, particularly in cases involving capital punishment, court-martial sentences, or sentences under federal laws.
Diplomatic Powers
On the global stage, the president represents India in all international matters:
- Treaty Ratification: International treaties and agreements are signed in the president’s name after negotiations.
- Representation in International Forums: The president officially represents India at international events and forums, cementing the country’s global position.
Military Powers
The president is the commander-in-chief of India’s armed forces, which includes:
- Appointment of Military Chiefs: The president appoints the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, underscoring the office’s significance in national defense.
- Declaration of War or Peace: On parliamentary advice, the president can declare war or peace, reflecting the importance of this role in national security.
Emergency Powers
The president's emergency powers are crucial for maintaining constitutional order and addressing crises:
- National Emergency: The president can declare a national emergency in situations of internal or external threat, as seen in the 1975 emergency under President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed. Parliament must ratify such a declaration by a two-thirds majority, and fundamental rights may be temporarily suspended.
- State Emergency: A state emergency, or President’s Rule, can be declared in a state facing governmental failure. This emergency must be ratified within two months and can extend for up to three years with parliamentary approval.
- Financial Emergency: In cases where India’s financial stability is at risk, the president can declare a financial emergency, subject to parliamentary approval. This emergency allows presidential oversight on state finances and federal expenditure.
Impeachment Process
While the president is immune from criminal proceedings, impeachment is possible if the president violates the Constitution. Initiated by either house, impeachment requires a two-thirds majority and an investigation by the other house, ensuring a thorough process to maintain accountability.
Selection Process and Eligibility
To be eligible for the presidency, a candidate must meet the following conditions:
- Citizenship: The candidate must be an Indian citizen.
- Age: Candidates must be at least 35 years old.
- Lok Sabha Eligibility: All other qualifications required for membership in the Lok Sabha must be met.
- Restrictions: The president cannot hold any position that provides financial gain from the central or state governments.
The president is chosen by an electoral college consisting of elected members from the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and state legislative assemblies. Nominated members of these bodies do not participate in the presidential election. This system reflects India’s federal structure and ensures representation across the nation.
Historical List of Presidents
India has seen various leaders in the presidential role, each contributing to the nation’s democratic values. A complete list is accessible on the official website of the President of India, documenting the historical journey and service of each president.
For additional information on the presidents of India, please visit the official site: President of India
