Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigns citing health reasons amid speculation of political undercurrents

In a surprise political development, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar tendered his resignation on Monday, citing health concerns as the official reason. His resignation, submitted to President Droupadi Murmu, has been accepted with immediate effect, triggering the process for electing a new Vice President of India.
The resignation, made public through an official post on social media platform X, marks a significant turn in the national political landscape. Dhankhar, who took office in August 2022, had over two years remaining in his tenure. His abrupt exit has sparked intense speculation within political circles.
While the official reason stated was medical advice and the need to focus on health, several sources indicate that Dhankhar’s recent actions may have contributed to tensions within the ruling establishment. His decision to admit an Opposition-backed notice against Justice Yashwant Varma in the Rajya Sabha is being viewed as a potential flashpoint. Reports suggest that this move may not have aligned with the government’s stance, possibly leading to pressure behind the scenes.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, responding to the development, acknowledged Dhankhar’s contributions in various public roles. “Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji has served the country with distinction in many capacities, including as Vice President. Wishing him good health,” the Prime Minister wrote on X.
Political analysts have linked the timing of the resignation to upcoming electoral dynamics, particularly in Bihar, where the BJP is recalibrating its strategy. The move is being interpreted by some as part of broader realignments within the NDA ahead of crucial state elections.
President Murmu formally accepted the resignation, and the Ministry of Home Affairs issued the official notification. In the Rajya Sabha, BJP MP Ghanshyam Tiwari read out the President’s communication, confirming the vacancy of the Vice President’s office under Article 67(a) of the Constitution.
At 74, Dhankhar becomes only the third Vice President in India’s history to step down before completing his term, following the precedents set by VV Giri and R Venkataraman. He also served as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha during his tenure and was known for his assertive handling of House proceedings.
Sources within the BJP suggest that Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh is being considered as a likely successor, though the party has yet to announce an official nominee. The Election Commission is expected to release a schedule for the vice-presidential election in the coming weeks.
The resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar has not only created a constitutional vacuum but has also added a new dimension to the political discourse, with questions emerging about the underlying reasons behind the sudden move. As the ruling coalition begins the process of identifying a new Vice President, the Opposition is also likely to weigh its options in what could become a closely watched electoral contest in Parliament.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to outgoing Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar via a social media post, thanking him for his service.