Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s abrupt resignation has stirred political controversy, with Congress MPs raising doubts over the stated reason of health concerns and alleging possible government pressure behind the move.
Congress MP Neeraj Dangi questioned the suddenness of the resignation, calling it “shocking and surprising.” He suggested that the decision might not have been voluntary. “Dhankhar sahab had health issues earlier but resumed duties within days. So, citing health concerns now raises questions. It appears to be a resignation under pressure from the government. This is not good for democracy,” Dangi stated.
Calling it an unprecedented event, Dangi said, “I believe this is the first time in India’s history that a Vice President has resigned of his own accord. It reflects how the government wants to arbitrarily control every institution.”
Congress MP Kiran Kumar Chamala also expressed disbelief, pointing out that Dhankhar was active in the Rajya Sabha earlier the same day. “He spoke about political unity and dialogue. It’s shocking that by evening, he resigned citing medical advice. It doesn’t add up,” Chamala remarked.
Echoing the sentiment, Congress MP Imraan Masood said, “He was present in Parliament throughout the day. What happened within just an hour that led to his resignation? We wish him good health, but the reason remains unclear.”
Adding to the confusion, the Vice President’s Secretariat had earlier in the day announced his scheduled visit to Jaipur on Tuesday, including an engagement with members of CREDAI Rajasthan—further deepening questions about the timing of his exit.
Later that evening, Dhankhar officially tendered his resignation, stating:
“To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution.”
In his resignation letter, he thanked President Droupadi Murmu for her support, and extended gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Council of Ministers for their cooperation. He described his time in office as a “privilege,” lauding India’s economic progress and global achievements during his tenure.
“As I leave this esteemed office, I am filled with pride in Bharat’s global rise and hold unwavering confidence in her brilliant future,” he wrote.
Dhankhar, who was sworn in as the 14th Vice President of India on August 11, 2022, also served as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. His resignation came on the opening day of the monsoon session of Parliament, catching political observers and colleagues by surprise.
