Impeachment
Impeachment is a formal process of removing a public official from office. It is typically initiated by a member of the legislature, known as a “impeachor,” who accuses the official of wrongdoing. The impeachment process can then be carried out by the legislature, and the official may be removed from office if found guilty.
Procedure:
- Impeachment: A member of the legislature introduces an impeachment resolution outlining the charges against the official.
- Investigation: An impeachment committee is appointed to investigate the charges and prepare a report of findings.
- Trial: If the impeachment committee finds that the official has committed the charges, it recommends that the official be impeached.
- Trial in the Senate: If the impeachment is approved by the legislature, the official is tried in the Senate.
- Removal: If the Senate finds the official guilty of impeachment, the President can remove the official from office.
Reasons for Impeachment:
- Abuse of power
- Neglect of duty
- Corruption
- Obstruction of justice
- Impeachment of other officials
Examples of Impeachment:
- President Bill Clinton was impeached in 1998 for perjury and obstruction of justice.
- President Andrew Johnson was impeached in 1868 for “high crimes and misdemeanors.”
- Vice President Al Gore was impeached in 2002 for abusing his power as mayor of Nashville, Tennessee.
Note:
Impeachment is a serious process and should not be used lightly. It is important to ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions. However, it is also important to protect against political persecution and abuse of the impeachment process.
FAQs
What does “impeachable” mean?
“Impeachable” refers to the possibility of being charged with a crime or misconduct, especially in relation to a public official. It means that the person in question has committed actions that could lead to impeachment.
What is an impeachable offense?
An impeachable offense is an action or behavior by a public official that violates the law or breaches the public trust, making them subject to the impeachment process. This can include crimes such as treason, bribery, or other serious misconduct.
Who can impeach the President of India?
Both houses of Parliament in India, the Lok Sabha (Lower House) and the Rajya Sabha (Upper House), have the power to initiate impeachment proceedings against the President of India. However, the impeachment must be supported by a two-thirds majority in both houses.
What is the process of impeaching the President of India?
The process starts with a notice of impeachment signed by a certain number of members of either Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha. The charges are investigated, and if the resolution is passed by a two-thirds majority in both houses, the President can be removed from office.
