Interim leadership: vice-chairman or authorised member acts as chairman until vacancy is filled or duties resume. When the Chairman's office is vacant, the Vice-Chairman or a Member authorised by the Central Government by notification shall act as Chairman until a new Chairman appointed under the Chapter assumes office. When the Chairman is unable to discharge functions owing to absence, illness or any other cause, the Vice-Chairman or an authorised Member shall discharge the Chairman's functions until the Chairman resumes duties. The section is subject to a statutory proviso terminating its application from a prescribed future date.