Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns: A Sudden and Unprecedented Move

In a surprising and unprecedented political development, Jagdeep Dhankhar, the 14th Vice President of India, resigned from his post on July 21, 2025. The resignation, which took effect immediately, was submitted to President Droupadi Murmu under Article 67(a) of the Indian Constitution, which allows the Vice President to resign by writing addressed to the President. Official Reason: Health Concerns The official reason cited in the resignation letter was health issues. Dhankhar, aged 74, stated that he was stepping down to prioritize his well-being and adhere to medical advice. Though health was presented as the prime motive, the timing and manner of the resignation sparked widespread political speculation across party lines. Political Friction Behind the Scenes? While the resignation was framed as a personal decision, several political observers believe deeper tensions may have played a role. Sources suggest that Dhankhar’s assertive role as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha had created discomfort within the ruling establishment. His support for an opposition motion regarding Justice Yashwant Varma, for example, reportedly created friction with senior BJP leaders. Dhankhar was also known for his outspoken nature and independent views. On several occasions, he pushed back against established government narratives or took a more neutral constitutional stance, which reportedly did not sit well with the BJP's top brass. His demand for parity with U.S. Vice President protocol and public comments on judicial matters are also believed to have triggered internal discord. A Rare Mid-Term Resignation Dhankhar’s resignation marks the first time a Vice President has resigned mid-term in the history of independent India. He had assumed office in August 2022, and was expected to serve until 2027. With two years remaining, his departure has left a vacuum in one of the highest constitutional positions in the country. Mixed Political Reactions The resignation was acknowledged briefly by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who thanked Dhankhar for his service and wished him well. However, the absence of a grand farewell or significant cabinet presence at the time raised eyebrows. In contrast, opposition parties expressed concern and demanded clarity on the circumstances surrounding the resignation. The Congress, Trinamool Congress, and other parties alleged that Dhankhar may have faced pressure from within the ruling alliance, possibly even threats of impeachment. Leaders from the Jat community in Rajasthan, Dhankhar’s home state, expressed disappointment and concern over the political treatment meted out to him. What Happens Next? With the Vice President’s office now vacant, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha will temporarily perform the constitutional duties. An election will be held shortly, involving members of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Names like Rajnath Singh and Harivansh Narayan Singh have emerged as possible successors, but no official announcement has been made yet. Conclusion Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation marks a significant moment in Indian politics. While officially attributed to health concerns, the resignation has stirred debates about institutional independence, internal party dynamics, and the role of constitutional functionaries. As the nation awaits the appointment of a new Vice President, Dhankhar’s exit will continue to be analyzed for its political and constitutional implications.