In the wake of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s sudden resignation citing health reasons, senior Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal expressed deep sorrow and admiration for Dhankhar’s tenure, calling him “one of the most proactive Chairmen the Rajya Sabha has seen.”
Speaking to ANI, Sibal recalled a personal association with Dhankhar spanning over four decades, rooted in legal practice and mutual respect. “I wish him good health. I’m saddened by his resignation. We’ve known each other for 30–40 years—appeared together in court, and shared a unique camaraderie. He has been to some family occasions of ours. I always respected him, and he always respected me,” Sibal shared.
Despite political differences, Sibal said their personal rapport remained strong. He noted how Dhankhar had always been accommodating in the Rajya Sabha. “Whenever I needed time to speak in the House, he never refused me. In fact, he gave me more time than usually allotted to independent MPs,” Sibal said.
Avoiding speculation over the reasons behind the resignation, Sibal accepted the Vice President’s stated cause—health issues. “I won’t speculate. He said it was for health, and I respect that. He was always persuasive and encouraged MPs from all sides to work together in national interest. He had a golden heart, a clear mind, and was truly a friend of friends,” he added.
Earlier in the day, Vice President Dhankhar submitted his resignation letter, effective immediately, citing health concerns and adherence to medical advice. His resignation, submitted under Article 67(a) of the Constitution, came on the opening day of the Parliament’s monsoon session.
In his resignation letter, Dhankhar thanked President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the Council of Ministers for their support during his tenure. He described his time in office as “a privilege” and a period of witnessing “India’s exponential development and rising global stature.”
“The warmth, trust, and affection from MPs will remain in my heart forever,” Dhankhar said, adding that he leaves office filled with pride in India’s global achievements and confidence in its bright future.
Jagdeep 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 during his term.
