Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns Citing Personal Reasons; Nation Awaits Successor
Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns : New Delhi, July 21, 2025 — In a surprising turn of events, Jagdeep Dhankhar, the 14th Vice President of India, tendered his Resigns on Monday, citing “personal and health-related reasons.” The sudden announcement has sent ripples across the political spectrum, prompting questions about the timing and potential political implications ahead of the next general elections.
Health, Pressure, or Political Strategy? (Continued)
While Jagdeep Dhankhar’s statement attributes his Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns to personal and health-related concerns, political corridors in Delhi are abuzz with alternative theories. Several analysts are speculating whether Dhankhar might be preparing for a larger political role ahead of the 2026 state elections or even a cabinet position, especially given his firm ideological alignment with the ruling BJP.
Others believe the decision could stem from increasing friction within constitutional institutions. Dhankhar has, on multiple occasions, voiced concerns over judicial activism, federalism, and the autonomy of Parliament — positions that brought him under scrutiny from opposition parties, legal circles, and occasionally even fellow lawmakers.
“He may have chosen to step away from the ceremonial responsibilities to play a more assertive role in shaping policy or electoral strategy,” remarked political analyst Anuj Tripathi.
A Look Back at Dhankhar’s Tenure
During his nearly three-year term, Dhankhar presided over crucial parliamentary sessions that witnessed major legislative developments, including: Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns
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Debates on Uniform Civil Code (UCC) framework proposals
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The passage of Digital India (Data Sovereignty) Bill
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The implementation of the revised National Education Policy (NEP) framework
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Handling of stormy sessions over the Agnipath military recruitment policy
His conduct in the Rajya Sabha was largely viewed as assertive yet constitutional. However, critics accused him of partisanship at times, especially when engaging in heated exchanges with opposition leaders.
He also earned respect for his oratory, often quoting the Constitution, Ambedkar, and classical Indian philosophy to underscore his decisions and interventions.
Reactions from the Political Sphere
The announcement sparked a wave of responses across party lines.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), wrote:
“Respected Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar ji’s dedication to constitutional duties and democratic discourse has been exemplary. His resignation is a moment of reflection for us all. I wish him good health and continued service to the nation.”
Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge responded more cautiously:
“We respect the Vice President’s decision. The role of such a high constitutional authority must remain neutral and balanced. We hope his successor upholds those values.”
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, under whose tenure Dhankhar served as Governor, issued a brief statement:
“I wish Shri Dhankhar well. Our differences were public, but so was our shared duty to uphold the Constitution.”
What Happens Next?
As per the Constitution of India, Article 66 governs the election of the Vice President. Following the resignation, the Election Commission of India (ECI) is expected to announce the schedule for the Vice Presidential election within the next few weeks.
In the interim, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha or the President may preside over certain ceremonial functions until a new Vice President assumes office.
There is already speculation about possible successors. Names doing the rounds include:
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Arif Mohammad Khan – current Governor of Kerala
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Anandiben Patel – Governor of Uttar Pradesh
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Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ – Former Education Minister
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Om Birla – Speaker of Lok Sabha, if he does not return post-election
The Road Ahead for Dhankhar?
With no official announcement about his next role, Jagdeep Dhankhar’s future remains speculative. Given his legal background, administrative experience, and political loyalty, he remains a valuable asset to the ruling BJP.
Some insiders suggest he may be offered a constitutional position such as Governor, while others believe he could be included in the Union Cabinet reshuffle, possibly in a portfolio related to legal affairs or parliamentary affairs.
Conclusion: A Resignation with Ripples
Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns exit from the second-highest constitutional office of India has raised more questions than it has answered. Whether driven by health concerns, ideological differences, or political ambition, the impact of his departure will be felt not just in Parliament, but across India’s evolving political narrative.
In the coming weeks, as parties prepare to nominate their candidates for the Vice Presidential race, the spotlight will remain on Dhankhar—and what his next move might signal in India’s political chessboard.
Official Resignation Submitted to President Droupadi Murmu
As per protocol, Dhankhar submitted his formal letter of resignation to President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier today. Sources close to the Vice President’s Office confirm that the President has accepted the resignation “with immediate effect.”
A brief communiqué from the President’s Secretariat read:
“The Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, has submitted his resignation due to personal circumstances. The Hon’ble President of India has accepted the resignation with immediate effect.”
No further details were provided.
A Quiet Exit from a Constitutionally Significant Office
Dhankhar, who assumed office on August 11, 2022, served for nearly three years. A seasoned legal professional and a former Governor of West Bengal, his tenure as Vice President was marked by both decorum and controversy—particularly in his role as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Often vocal on issues ranging from judicial overreach to parliamentary decorum, Dhankhar had earned both praise and criticism across party lines. He was seen as a strong constitutionalist, often invoking India’s founding principles in parliamentary debates.
“His resignation comes as a surprise. He was one of the more assertive Vice Presidents we’ve had in recent decades,” said Prof. Kavita Mehra, a constitutional scholar at JNU.
Health, Pressure, or Political Strategy?
Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns : While Dhankhar’s official statement cites personal and health reasons, political observers are not ruling out other motivations. Some speculate that his resignation may be a **prelude