India’s Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar unexpectedly resigned from his constitutional post on July 21, during the opening day of the Monsoon Session in Parliament. The announcement, citing health issues, was made public shortly after Dhankhar visited Rashtrapati Bhavan to personally hand over his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu. Though he cited medical advice as the reason, the sudden nature of his exit has triggered widespread speculation and debate.
Dhankhar, 74, had assumed office in August 2022 and was set to serve until August 2027. Despite appearing active and spirited in public, sources indicate he had been facing persistent health concerns in recent months. In March, he was hospitalized at AIIMS and advised to limit travel. During a June visit to Nainital, he collapsed during an event due to extreme heat. He also appeared frail during recent public engagements, needing support from his spouse and aides.
However, many in the opposition believe the resignation wasn’t entirely health-driven. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge questioned the timing, hinting at undisclosed political motives behind the move. He pointed out Dhankhar’s strong defense of the ruling BJP and RSS, suggesting there may be “something fishy” about his sudden exit. The RJD in Bihar went further, alleging the resignation could be part of a plot to clear the way for Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to assume the vice presidency.
Adding fuel to the controversy is Dhankhar’s acceptance of a notice from 68 MPs seeking the removal of Justice Yashwant Varma. This reportedly caused friction with the central government, as key BJP leaders notably skipped a meeting Dhankhar convened later that day.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission has initiated steps to conduct the vice presidential election. Among the names being floated are Nitish Kumar, Delhi LG VK Saxena, J&K LG Manoj Sinha, and Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh. TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee claimed that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh may also be a contender, suggesting Dhankhar faced pressure to resign or risk impeachment. The situation remains fluid as India awaits the official announcement of the next Vice President.
