Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigns mid-term due to health issues
In a move that has sent ripples through India’s political landscape, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from office on July 21, 2025, citing health-related reasons. The resignation, effective immediately, was tendered to President Droupadi Murmu under Article 67(a) of the Indian Constitution, marking a rare mid-term exit from the country’s second-highest constitutional post.
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A Sudden Departure Amid Parliamentary Session
Dhankhar’s resignation came on the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, where he had earlier presided over proceedings as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The timing caught many by surprise, as there had been no prior indication of his intent to step down.
In his resignation letter, Dhankhar wrote: “To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately.” He expressed deep gratitude to President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Members of Parliament for their support during his tenure.
A Career Steeped in Public Service
Aged 74, Dhankhar assumed office in August 2022, succeeding M. Venkaiah Naidu. He defeated opposition candidate Margaret Alva in the Vice Presidential election and became the 14th Vice President of India.
Before his elevation to the Vice Presidency, Dhankhar served as:
- Governor of West Bengal (2019–2022)
- Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs (1990–1991)
- MP from Jhunjhunu (1989–1991)
- MLA from Kishangarh, Rajasthan (1993–1998)
His tenure as Vice President was marked by assertive chairmanship in the Rajya Sabha and active engagement in constitutional debates.
Health Over Office: A Rare Resignation
Dhankhar becomes only the third Vice President in Indian history to resign mid-term. The previous two were:
- V.V. Giri, who resigned in 1969 to contest the presidential election.
- R. Venkataraman, who stepped down in 1987 after being nominated for the presidency.
Unlike his predecessors, Dhankhar’s resignation was purely on medical grounds, making it a precedent-setting moment in Indian constitutional history.
What Happens Next? The Constitutional Roadmap
With the Vice Presidency now vacant, the Election Commission of India is constitutionally mandated to conduct a Vice Presidential election within six months. Until then, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha will preside over the Upper House.
The election process will follow the Vice-President Election Rules, 1997, using a single transferable vote system. The elected successor will serve a full five-year term, not just the remainder of Dhankhar’s tenure.
Political Implications and Speculation
Dhankhar’s resignation comes at a politically sensitive time, with Parliament in session and key legislative bills under debate. His departure may prompt recalibrations within the ruling NDA alliance, especially regarding the selection of a successor who can maintain parliamentary decorum and navigate coalition dynamics.
Political analysts suggest that the government may opt for a candidate with legal acumen and cross-party appeal, given the Vice President’s dual role as constitutional guardian and Rajya Sabha chair.
Dhankhar’s Legacy: A Voice of Constitutional Clarity
Throughout his tenure, Dhankhar was known for his forthright interpretations of constitutional provisions, often engaging in spirited exchanges with opposition leaders. His legal background and experience as a parliamentarian lent gravitas to his role, even as his assertive style drew both praise and criticism.
In his farewell note, Dhankhar reflected: “Serving in this transformative era of our nation’s history has been a true honour. I am filled with pride in Bharat’s global rise and hold unwavering confidence in her brilliant future.”
Conclusion: A Vacancy That Demands Vision
Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation is more than a procedural event – it’s a moment of introspection for India’s constitutional machinery. As the nation prepares to elect a new Vice President, the choice will reflect not just political strategy but the evolving ethos of Indian democracy.
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