The resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar was formally accepted by President Droupadi Murmu, as announced in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. BJP MP Ghanshyam Tiwari, who was presiding over the House, informed members of the development just before the Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 2:00 PM. Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh took over the proceedings following Dhankhar’s exit.
The resignation was conveyed via a notification from the Ministry of Home Affairs under Article 67(a) of the Constitution. Dhankhar stepped down on Monday, citing health reasons, stating he wished to “prioritise health care and abide by medical advice.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X extending his wishes: “Jagdeep Dhankhar has got many opportunities to serve our country in various capacities, including as the Vice President of India. Wishing him good health.”
However, the resignation has triggered a wave of speculation from the opposition, who suspect political undercurrents behind the move.
Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi termed the resignation “sudden and unfortunate,” pointing to Dhankhar’s active participation in the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meetings just a day earlier. He noted that the absence of key Union Ministers, including BJP President JP Nadda, from the meeting raised eyebrows.
Echoing these concerns, former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel claimed the resignation was not merely due to health issues. “He looked absolutely fine. The resignation amid the ongoing session, right after certain ministers failed to attend a key meeting, suggests the brewing of a political storm,” Baghel told reporters.
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh also expressed disbelief, saying, “The sudden resignation is as shocking as it is unimaginable. I spoke with him as late as 7:30 PM yesterday. While health is a priority, it is clear that there is more to this resignation than meets the eye.”
This dramatic political twist comes amid reports that a parliamentary committee may soon be formed to investigate Justice Yashwant Varma, who is facing potential removal following an in-house probe related to semi-burnt currency found at his residence.
Jagdeep Dhankhar, who took office as Vice President in August 2022, also served as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. His sudden exit has left a vacuum at the top of India’s parliamentary leadership, stirring intense speculation about the real reasons behind his departure.
