On July 21, 2025, India woke up to the unexpected news of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation, a move that has sent ripples through the political landscape. Citing health concerns, the 74-year-old leader stepped down from his role as the 14th Vice President of India, effective immediately. This decision, announced on the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, has sparked curiosity, speculation, and debate. As someone who’s been following Indian politics, I find this development both surprising and thought-provoking. Let’s dive into the details of this significant event, exploring its context, implications, and what might come next.
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A Sudden Resignation Amid a Busy Day
Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation came as a shock, especially given how active he was on the day he announced it. As the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, he presided over the first day of the Monsoon Session, administering oaths to new members and even handling a motion regarding the removal of a high court judge. There was no hint of his impending exit during these proceedings. In his resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu, Dhankhar stated, “To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution.” He expressed gratitude to the President, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Members of Parliament for their support during his tenure.
Dhankhar’s health issues are not entirely new. He underwent angioplasty earlier this year at AIIMS, Delhi, and had been hospitalized briefly in March. While he appeared frail at times, he remained active in his duties, making his sudden resignation all the more unexpected. Just days before, he had humorously remarked at an event at JawJawaharlal Nehru University that he would retire in August 2027 “subject to divine intervention.” The timing of his exit, right at the start of a crucial parliamentary session, has raised eyebrows and fueled speculation about underlying reasons.
Political Reactions and Speculation
The opposition was quick to react, with many leaders expressing surprise and skepticism. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh called the resignation “totally unexpected” and suggested there might be “far deeper reasons” beyond health concerns. He noted that Dhankhar had chaired a Business Advisory Committee meeting earlier that day and was set to make judiciary-related announcements, indicating no prior signs of stepping down. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey echoed this sentiment, questioning why the resignation coincided with the session’s opening day, suggesting a lack of consultation within the government.
Some sources point to a possible rift with the government. Dhankhar’s decision to accept an opposition-sponsored motion to remove a judge over a cash recovery scandal reportedly clashed with the ruling BJP’s strategy to lead the charge against judicial corruption. There are whispers that this move may have prompted talks of a no-confidence motion against him, which he preempted by resigning. While these claims remain speculative, they highlight the complex dynamics at play.
Dhankhar’s Tenure: A Mix of Duty and Controversy
Jagdeep Dhankhar, a seasoned politician and lawyer, took office in August 2022 after a notable stint as the Governor of West Bengal. His tenure as Vice President was marked by vocal stances on issues like judicial overreach and farmers’ welfare. He often criticized the judiciary, calling Article 142 a “nuclear missile against democratic forces” and asserting Parliament’s supremacy. These remarks, while bold, sometimes aligned closely with the government’s views, drawing criticism from the opposition for perceived partisanship. In December 2024, the INDIA bloc even moved a no-confidence motion against him, which was dismissed by Deputy Chairman Harivansh.
Despite the controversies, Dhankhar was praised for his commitment to constitutional values and his advocacy for farmers, reflecting his rural roots. Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan lauded his “fearless expression” and dedication, noting that his tenure set a high benchmark for public life.
What Happens Next: The Road to a New Vice President
With Dhankhar’s resignation, the responsibility of chairing the Rajya Sabha falls to Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh until a new Vice President is elected. According to Article 68(2) of the Constitution, an election to fill the vacancy must be held “as soon as possible.” The electoral college, comprising members of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, will choose the successor through a system of proportional representation. The BJP-led NDA, with its majority, is already deliberating potential candidates, with names like Harivansh being floated as a non-controversial choice.
This isn’t the first time a Vice President has resigned mid-term. V.V. Giri and R. Venkataraman stepped down in 1969 and 1987, respectively, to contest presidential elections. Dhankhar’s case, however, is unique as it’s driven by health rather than political ambition, making him the seventh Vice President not to complete a full term.
Reflections on a Transformative Tenure
Dhankhar’s resignation marks the end of a significant chapter in India’s political history. In his letter, he expressed pride in witnessing India’s “remarkable economic progress” and “unprecedented exponential development.” His tenure, though contentious at times, reflected his deep commitment to public service and constitutional duties. As political circles buzz with speculation, the focus now shifts to who will fill this prestigious role and how they’ll navigate the challenges ahead. For now, we wish Jagdeep Dhankhar good health and peace in the next phase of his life, while India braces for the next chapter in its political journey.