Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigns citing health reasons. Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh meets President Droupadi Murmu. Get full updates here.
In a surprising political development, Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from his post on the first day of the Monsoon session of Parliament. His decision, which took many by surprise, was attributed to health concerns. The resignation came nearly three years before the end of his scheduled term in August 2027.
Soon after, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday, July 22. Although the purpose of the visit remains unclear, it has sparked speculation regarding the future leadership structure in the Upper House of Parliament.
Health Cited as Reason for Exit Under Article 67(a)
In his official resignation letter addressed to President Murmu, Dhankhar wrote:
“To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution.”
The announcement came as a shock to many, considering Dhankhar, aged 74, had assumed office only in August 2022.
Harivansh Steps In to Chair Rajya Sabha
Following Dhankhar’s resignation, Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan took charge of proceedings in the Rajya Sabha. Earlier in the day, BJP MP Ghanshyam Tiwari, who was presiding over the session, formally informed the house about the President’s acceptance of Dhankhar’s resignation.
Tiwari read out the Ministry of Home Affairs’ notification confirming the Vice President’s resignation under Article 67A of the Constitution, effective immediately. The upper house was subsequently adjourned until 2:00 PM.
Political Leaders React to the Exit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to acknowledge Dhankhar’s contributions. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:
“Jagdeep Dhankhar has got many opportunities to serve our country in various capacities, including as the Vice President of India. Wishing him good health.”
While PM Modi extended his well-wishes, the opposition, including the Congress party, hinted at deeper political undercurrents. Some leaders claimed the resignation might be tied to issues beyond health, pointing towards potential internal shifts within the ruling government.
Who is Jagdeep Dhankhar?
Before becoming the 14th Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar served as the Governor of West Bengal. A seasoned legal expert and a politician, he also held multiple roles within the BJP and Janata Dal over his decades-long career.
Known for his assertive stand and vocal approach in the Rajya Sabha, Dhankhar often engaged in sharp debates, particularly with opposition parties. His sudden departure, therefore, raises critical questions about leadership continuity and succession planning in the upper house.
What Lies Ahead?
With Dhankhar’s exit, all eyes are now on the President’s next move and the possible appointment of an acting or new Vice President. Until then, Harivansh Narayan Singh, as the Deputy Chairman, is expected to play a pivotal role in maintaining the continuity of Rajya Sabha proceedings.
The meeting between Harivansh and President Murmu has added fuel to speculation about upcoming changes. Though no official statement was made regarding their discussion, the timing suggests that important decisions may be on the horizon.
The resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has created ripples across India’s political spectrum. While health has been cited as the reason, the timing and silence on future plans have only intensified speculation. Meanwhile, Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh’s meeting with the President could be the first step towards shaping the next phase of leadership in the Rajya Sabha.
Stay tuned for more developments as the Monsoon session unfolds with heightened political drama and anticipation.