New Delhi: In a move that took the political establishment by surprise, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar tendered his resignation on July 21, 2025, bringing an abrupt end to his term nearly two years ahead of schedule. Citing deteriorating health and medical advice as the reasons for stepping down, Dhankhar submitted his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu under Article 67(a) of the Indian Constitution. The resignation was accepted promptly, with the President expressing gratitude for his service.
The timing of Dhankhar’s resignation has stirred a wave of speculation, as it coincided with the opening day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. His absence from the Rajya Sabha during a key legislative session led to a flurry of political activity, with opposition parties questioning the underlying causes of his departure. Many leaders expressed doubts over whether health alone was the trigger, or whether internal disagreements or political pressure also played a role.
Though officially attributed to health concerns, Dhankhar’s medical history in recent months supports his explanation. In March, he was admitted to AIIMS due to cardiac discomfort. Then in June, during a public appearance in Uttarakhand, he fainted raising serious questions about his ability to carry out strenuous public duties. However, the lack of detailed clarification from the government has only fueled further curiosity.
Senior opposition figures, including Congress spokesperson Jairam Ramesh, have openly called for transparency. “If the resignation was purely on medical grounds, we wish him well. But the nation has a right to know if there were other factors at play,” Ramesh stated. Trinamool Congress MP Saugata Roy echoed similar sentiments, alleging that Dhankhar may have found himself politically cornered within the power structure.
With the vice presidency now vacant, the Election Commission is expected to announce the schedule for a fresh election. According to constitutional procedures, the Vice President is elected by an electoral college consisting of members of both houses of Parliament. The voting is conducted via a secret ballot and follows a system of proportional representation. Until the new Vice President is sworn in, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha will preside over its proceedings.
Jagdeep Dhankhar, a lawyer by profession, had served as the Governor of West Bengal before rising to the Vice Presidency in 2022. He was known for his assertive role in the Rajya Sabha, often clashing with the opposition during debates but also earning praise for maintaining order in the House during turbulent sessions. His electoral victory was decisive, securing over 74% of the votes, with strong backing from the ruling NDA alliance.
His sudden departure now leaves a crucial constitutional post open at a politically sensitive time. The Monsoon Session is expected to see debates on critical bills and policy issues, and the absence of a Vice President who also serves as the Rajya Sabha Chairman adds an element of unpredictability to the proceedings.
As speculation swirls around his resignation, and political camps prepare for an intense vice-presidential race, Jagdeep Dhankhar’s unexpected exit has added yet another twist to India’s ever-evolving political landscape.