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Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns: A Sudden Departure for Health
On July 21, 2025, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar submitted his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu under Article 67(a) of the Indian Constitution, citing urgent medical advice and a need to prioritize his health. The letter, posted on X (formerly Twitter), conveyed an immediate end to his tenure, which began on August 11, 2022.
Dhankhar, aged 74, thanked President Murmu for her “unwavering support” and their “soothing wonderful working relationship.” He also acknowledged Prime Minister Modi, the Council of Ministers, and Members of Parliament for their cooperation—calling his role a “privilege” and his experiences “invaluable”.
The Letter: Grateful, Gracious, But Health-Driven
The text of his resignation is equal parts powerful and poignant:
“To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately…”
Dhankhar reflected on his term by declaring, “Serving in this transformative era of our nation’s history has been a true honour,” and stated his confidence in “Bharat’s global rise and phenomenal achievements.” His expression of gratitude extended to all Members of Parliament for the warmth and affection he experienced.
A Career in High Office
A lawyer by training and a seasoned politician, Dhankhar’s meteoric path included serving as:
- Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs (1990–91)
- Member of Lok Sabha (1989–91)
- Rajasthan MLA (1993–98)
- Governor of West Bengal (2019–22), where his outspoken approaches led to clashes with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
In August 2022, he became India’s 14th Vice President, succeeding M. Venkaiah Naidu. His ascent followed a decisive electoral victory, where he secured 528 votes out of 710 valid ballots—nearly 75%—the highest margin since 1997.
Timing: A Parliamentary Disruption
Dhankhar stepped down at the opening of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, a time when his absence is acutely felt. As the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha—the Upper House of Parliament—he presided over proceedings and shared a memorable final message urging cross-party harmony and urging restraint against corrosive acrimony.
Following his departure, Deputy Chairman Harivansh is expected to assume the chair’s responsibilities until a new Vice President is elected.
What Happens Next: A Constitutional Interlude
Dhankhar’s resignation immediately triggers a constitutional process to fill the vacancy:
- Election Commission issues notification for an early Vice Presidential election.
- Electoral College (both houses of Parliament) votes via single transferable vote system with nominated members of the Rajya Sabha also participating.
- The Deputy Chairman oversees Rajya Sabha until the new Vice President is in office.
A timely election ensures minimal constitutional delay in reinstating the office, which also plays a pivotal role in presidential succession.
Potential Successors
No official candidates have yet emerged. The field could include:
- Senior Rajya Sabha MPs from the BJP-led NDA coalition
- Prominent opposition voices seeking to spherical consensus
- Established statesmen known for constitutional propriety
All candidates must be at least 35, eligible for Rajya Sabha membership, and nominated. They must also earn majority support from the entire parliamentary electoral college.
Discussions have already begun in New Delhi. Party strategists are likely comparing cross-party appeal, parliamentary stature, and regional balance.
The Broader Significance of His Term
Despite a truncated vice-presidential tenure, Dhankhar made a distinct impact:
- Parliamentary decorum: He courted a more visible and active role, urging a shift from adversarial rhetoric to constructive engagement.
- Political balance: As a former lawyer and outspoken voice, he sparked critical dialogue—sometimes clashing with the judiciary and the West Bengal government.
His resignation sets a precedent: another Vice President stepping down mid-term due to personal health, after R. Venkataraman (1987) and V. V. Giri (1969).
Health & Leadership: A Note on Stamina
Though details of Dhankhar’s health have not been disclosed, he had an AIIMS admission earlier this year, reportedly for a cardiac-related issue, and fainted during a public event in May. His decision holds up a mirror to the demands of constitutional office at advanced age, bringing focus to the importance of personal well-being in governance.
Navigating a Transition in a Crucial Session
The unfolding Monsoon Session is marked by legislative activity—from budgetary debates to judicial accountability questions (e.g., a proposed judge impeachment). Dhankhar’s presence was expected to guide smooth proceedings; his departure may amplify political undercurrents.
Maintaining order in the House falls to his successor—interim or elected. Prompt scheduling of the new vice-presidential election is likely to become a parliamentary calendar priority.
Final Thoughts
Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation marks a solemn, unexpected pause in his vice-presidential chapter. The resignation underscores how health constraints can reshape political timelines—even in offices of high dignity and deep responsibility. The constitutional process for a timely successor is under way, and the large vacuum in the chairmanship of Rajya Sabha puts a spotlight on both leadership and procedural continuity at a critical legislative juncture.
As India watches closely, name speculation will surface, but the definitive test will come when contenders navigate the electoral college and secure the complex arithmetic of cross-party support. This coming weeks will decide whether Delhi opts for continuity, shift, or conciliation in filling the country’s ceremonial yet pivotal second-highest office.
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