Jagdeep Dhankhar Resignation – Why India’s Vice President Stepped Down and What Follows

Jagdeep Dhankhar Resignation has taken the nation by surprise, triggering a wave of speculation and analysis around the reasons behind the sudden exit of India’s Vice President. On July 21, 2025, Dhankhar formally submitted his resignation, sparking intense political reactions, both within Parliament and across the media landscape.

Background on Jagdeep Dhankhar

Jagdeep Dhankhar, a senior leader with deep roots in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), had been serving as India’s 14th Vice President since August 2022. A lawyer-turned-politician, Dhankhar previously held the position of Governor of West Bengal and was known for his firm stance on constitutional matters.

Official Reason Behind Jagdeep Dhankhar Resignation

The Jagdeep Dhankhar resignation on July 21, 2025, was officially attributed to serious health concerns, as stated in his formal letter submitted under Article 67(a) of the Indian Constitution. This clause allows a Vice President to resign by writing to the President of India.
Earlier in the year, Vice President Dhankhar had been admitted to the Critical Care Unit (CCU) at AIIMS, New Delhi, following complaints of chest pains. His health took another alarming turn when he collapsed during a public address in Uttarakhand, which drew widespread media attention.
These concerning episodes reinforced the legitimacy of his resignation. The decision, while sudden, was seen by many as a necessary step prioritizing personal well-being over public duty.

Gratitude to India’s Top Leadership

In his resignation letter, Jagdeep Dhankhar conveyed heartfelt gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and members of Parliament, reflecting a sense of mutual respect and dignity.
He praised the cordial and harmonious working relationship he enjoyed with India’s top leadership, underlining the absence of any public discord or animosity. Political observers noted the conciliatory tone of his letter, interpreting it as a gesture of goodwill and statesmanship in a politically charged atmosphere.

Political Reactions and Speculations Around Jagdeep Dhankhar Resignation

The Jagdeep Dhankhar resignation has sparked considerable political debate. Opposition leaders, including Manish Tewari, voiced skepticism about the official reason, subtly hinting at political motivations behind the decision.

Adding to the intrigue, the resignation came just before the Parliament’s monsoon session, a move that many view as strategically timed.

Political analysts have weighed in, pointing to several possible factors:

• Growing internal disagreements within the NDA alliance
• Anticipated cabinet reshuffle or realignment ahead of the 2029 General Elections
• Escalating tensions over legislation in the Rajya Sabha

Although no formal confirmation supports these theories, the coincidence of timing and political climate continues to raise eyebrows across party lines.

First Mid-Term Exit in Office

Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation marked a historic first—no Vice President in Indian history has ever stepped down mid-term. Known for its stability, the Vice President’s office—also serving as the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha—rarely sees such abrupt transitions.
His departure creates a temporary vacuum in the second-highest constitutional position in the country, triggering a constitutionally mandated process to elect a successor within six months. The unexpected nature of this move has stirred heightened political activity and speculation across party lines.

Emerging Contender for the Next VP

With Dhankar stepping down, the NDA is already discussing possible successors. Names like Shashi Tharoor and BJP’s Haribhau Bagade are being floated.
Meanwhile, Harivansh Narayan Singh, Rajya Sabha’s Deputy Chairperson, is serving as acting Chairperson until the election concludes.

What Happens Next — The Road to New Election

Under Article 67, the vacancy must be filled “as soon as possible,” typically within six months.
Parliament will convene an electoral college comprising both Houses. Analysts are closely watching party strengths and alliances — NDA has the upper hand in numbers.

Final Take: Health, Politics, and a Constitutional Moment

The Jagdeep Dhankar resignation is a landmark event: it’s a rare mid-term exit, driven by health concerns yet clouded by political speculation. As the nation prepares to elect a new Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman, it marks both a personal and institutional turning point.
The future of the Rajya Sabha leadership post-Jagdeep Dhankhar resignation remains uncertain.

“The resignation, officially taken under Article 67(a), was confirmed by leading reports stating that he submitted a letter to the President due to health concerns.” (TOI coverage)

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