NATIONAL: Dhankhar’s Resignation: Political Tensions or Health Crisis?
Vice President’s Abrupt Resignation
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned unexpectedly, citing health concerns in a letter to President Droupadi Murmu. The announcement, made after chairing the Rajya Sabha’s monsoon session, has triggered intense speculation.
Congress Questions Stated Motive
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, in an X post on July 22, cast doubt on Dhankhar’s health-related rationale. He suggested that political undercurrents, not medical issues, may have driven the sudden decision.
Tensions at Business Advisory Committee
Dhankhar led a Business Advisory Committee meeting at 12:30 pm, attended by BJP president J.P. Nadda and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. Their unexplained absence from a follow-up meeting at 4:30 pm led to Dhankhar’s frustration and adjournment to Tuesday.
Alleged Political Maneuvering
Ramesh hinted at a significant event between 1:00 pm and 4:30 pm, suggesting Nadda and Rijiju’s absence was deliberate. This perceived slight may have influenced Dhankhar’s resignation announcement later that evening.
Dhankhar’s Notable Tenure
Since assuming office on August 11, 2022, Dhankhar has championed farmers’ welfare and judicial accountability. His adherence to parliamentary protocol often sparked friction with opposition parties.
Health Claims Under Scrutiny
Despite a heart procedure in March 2025, Dhankhar appeared active in public duties. The abrupt invocation of health concerns under Article 67(a) has fueled skepticism about the true reasons for his exit.
Interim Leadership Transition
JDU leader Harivansh Narayan Singh, the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, will oversee proceedings following Dhankhar’s departure. Speculation is mounting about Harivansh’s potential candidacy for vice president.
Constitutional Mandate for Election
Article 68(2) requires a swift election to fill the vacancy, with the new vice president serving a full five-year term. The Electoral College of 788 parliamentarians will determine the successor.
Opposition Demands Transparency
Congress has called for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to urge Dhankhar to reconsider, citing his contributions. Opposition voices on X echo Ramesh’s suspicions of deeper political motives.
Broader Political Implications
Dhankhar’s resignation, amid a contentious monsoon session, raises questions about coalition dynamics and governance. The forthcoming vice presidential election will likely reflect strategic political alignments.