This module delves into critical aspects of the Indian Union Government's executive and legislative branches: the electoral process, eligibility criteria for holding office, and the significant process of impeachment. Understanding these elements is crucial for mastering UPSC Polity and Constitution.

The election of members to the Union Legislature (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) and the President of India follows distinct constitutional procedures. These processes ensure democratic representation and the selection of qualified individuals to govern.

Members of the Lok Sabha are directly elected by the people of India through universal adult suffrage. The country is divided into territorial constituencies, and each constituency elects one representative. Elections are conducted by the Election Commission of India.

Members of the Rajya Sabha are indirectly elected. 12 members are nominated by the President for their contributions to art, literature, science, and social service. The remaining seats are filled by elected representatives from the States and Union Territories. These elections are held by a system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote.

The President of India is elected by an electoral college consisting of the elected members of both Houses of Parliament and the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies. The election is held in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote.

To be eligible for election to Parliament or to hold the office of President, individuals must meet certain constitutional qualifications. These ensure that officeholders are citizens of India and possess the necessary integrity and capacity.

A person shall not be a member of Parliament unless he— (a) is a citizen of India, and makes and subscribes before some person authorized in that behalf by the Election Commission an oath or affirmation according to the form set out for the purpose in the Third Schedule; (b) is not less than twenty-five years of age for the Lok Sabha and not less than thirty years of age for the Rajya Sabha; (c) possesses such other qualifications as may be prescribed in this behalf by or under any law made by Parliament.

To be eligible for election as President, a person must— (a) be a citizen of India; (b) have completed the age of thirty-five years; (c) be qualified for election as a member of the House of the People (Lok Sabha).

Impeachment is a quasi-judicial process by which a high official, such as the President, can be removed from office for 'violation of the Constitution'. This process is a significant check on executive power.

The President can be impeached for 'Violation of the Constitution'. The process can be initiated in either House of Parliament. A resolution for impeachment requires a special majority (a majority of the total membership of the House and a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members of that House present and voting).

The House initiating the charges investigates them. If the charges are substantiated, the other House conducts a further inquiry. If the President is found guilty, the resolution for impeachment is passed, leading to their removal from office.

Judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts can also be removed through an impeachment process for 'proved misbehaviour or incapacity'. The procedure is similar to that of the President, involving charges brought by one House and investigated by the other, requiring a special majority for removal.

Focus on the specific articles of the Constitution related to these processes (e.g., Articles 52-78 for the President, Articles 84 & 102 for MPs, Articles 61 for impeachment). Understanding the electoral college for the President and the special majority required for impeachment are critical for exam success.