India's Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigns citing health reasons
Says he will prioritise well-being; resignation effective immediately
New Delhi: India's Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has stepped down from his post, citing medical advice and the need to prioritise his health. The resignation came on the first day of the monsoon session of Parliament.
In a letter addressed to President Droupadi Murmu, Dhankhar said his resignation would take effect immediately.
“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,” the letter stated.
He thanked President Murmu for her “unwavering support” and praised the “wonderful working relationship” they shared during his tenure.
Dhankhar also expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Council of Ministers.
“The Prime Minister’s cooperation and support have been invaluable, and I have learned much during my time in office,” he wrote.
Jagdeep Dhankhar had been serving as India’s Vice President since 2022, following his tenure as the Governor of West Bengal from 2019 to 2022.
VP election must be held within 60 days: reports
According to media reports, a formal election to fill the Vice President’s post must be conducted within 60 days of the resignation.
The electoral college comprises members of both Houses of Parliament, and the vote is conducted through proportional representation using the single transferable vote system.
As per constitutional provisions, in the event of a vacancy in the Vice President’s office, the Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha assumes the role of Acting Chairperson of the Upper House.
Jagdeep Dhankhar: A timeline of a legal and political career
1951: Born in Kithana village, Jhunjhunu district, Rajasthan, into a modest farming family.
1979: Began practising law after completing his BSc and LLB from the University of Rajasthan. Rose to prominence as a Senior Advocate and later became President of the Rajasthan High Court Bar Association.
1989: Entered politics, elected as a Janata Dal MP from Jhunjhunu.
1990: Appointed Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs in PM Chandra Shekhar’s government.
1993–1998: Served as a Member of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, representing Kishangarh.
2019: Appointed Governor of West Bengal. Known for repeated confrontations with the TMC government over constitutional and governance issues.
2022 (August): Elected as the 14th Vice President of India. Defeated opposition candidate Margaret Alva with over 74% of votes — the highest margin since 1992.
2022–2025: Served as Vice President and ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. Known for strict adherence to parliamentary rules.
2025 (July 21): Resigned as Vice President citing health reasons, ending a distinguished four-decade-long public career.
Legacy: Dhankhar’s journey — from a farmer’s son to one of India’s top constitutional positions — reflects a blend of legal brilliance, political adaptability, and assertive leadership.
With inputs from IANS
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