New Delhi, July 22, 2025 – In a dramatic and unexpected move, Jagdish Dhankhar, 14th Vice President of India, has tendered his resignation, citing health issues, under Article 67(a) of the Constitution. Announced late Monday and accepted by President Draupadi Murmu, Dhankhar’s exit comes nearly three years into his five-year term.
Political Reactions & Fallout
- Opposition Claims: Congress and other opposition parties suggest deeper political reasons behind the resignation. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh stated that “far more to his totally unexpected resignation than meets the eye,” implying that parliamentary tensions, rather than health alone, may be responsible.
- Business Advisory Committee Row: A flare-up occurred during a Rajya Sabha Business Advisory Committee meeting. With senior ministers absent at a second session, Dhankhar reportedly grew agitated and rescheduled the meeting—soon after which he resigned.
- JMM–Congress–RJD Alliance: Jharkhand’s ruling coalition has demanded clarity, claiming that Dhankhar resigned after attempts to shift focus toward Operation Sindoor discussions were resisted by the BJP.
- Community Reaction: His departure has triggered unrest in Rajasthan’s influential Jat community. Seen as BJP’s “kisan putra” representative, his resignation is perceived by many as sidelining of Jat farmers’ voices.
- Historical Context: Dhankhar becomes only the third VP to resign mid-term, following VV Giri and R Venkataraman. Krishan Kant died in office in 2002.
What Lies Ahead for Dhankhar?
Despite citing health, Dhankhar has no confirmed political plans yet. He may opt for retirement, focus on personal well-being, or transition to advisory roles. With calm demeanor throughout his career—from advocate, MP, West Bengal Governor to VP—his steady public image suggests he may be a respected elder statesman should he choose to remain active
Who Will Be the Next Vice President?
- Election Mechanics: The Election Commission is expected to announce a by-election within six months, under Article 66. The Electoral College—comprising all MPs—will decide via single transferable vote.
- Front-Runners: Speculation centers around Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh, known for his rapport across aisles. Other possibilities include senior BJP leaders, former governors, or ministers. The NDA, enjoying a majority in Parliament, is likely to endorse a consensus candidate.
- Political Strategy: The BJP is poised to select a candidate who balances constitutional stature and public appeal—a non-controversial figure with cross-party respect to steer key upcoming legislation, such as the One Nation One Election bill
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Reason | Health cited; opposition suggests political triggers |
| Immediate Effects | Rajya Sabha now chaired by Deputy Chairman Harivansh |
| Successor Race | EC to hold vote; NDA to nominate; Harivansh among leaders in contention |
| Implications | Signals possible shake-up in BJP ahead of 2029 elections, with representation politics in focus |
Dhankhar’s departure opens a significant political chapter. The upcoming vice-presidential election reflects not just constitutional protocol, but also deeper strategies concerning party representation, parliamentary control, and community sentiment.
