VOWORLD/DESK
On July 21, 2025, Vice-President of India and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from his post, citing health concerns and the need to follow medical advice. His resignation, delivered to President Droupadi Murmu, took effect immediately in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution.
“To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately,” stated Dhankhar in his letter, which was also shared on his official X handle.
The move came as a surprise to many in Parliament, as Dhankhar presided over the Rajya Sabha earlier the same day, even chairing a key meeting with floor leaders and speaking on the ongoing motion for the removal of Justice Yashwant Varma. Although he left before the post-lunch session, those who interacted with him said there were no signs he was preparing to step down. A senior Congress leader revealed he spoke to Dhankhar as late as 7:30 p.m., with no hint of the decision.
A Sudden Departure
Dhankhar, 74, had two years remaining in his term, having assumed office in August 2022 as India’s 14th Vice-President. His exit marks a rare event in Indian political history — only two other Vice-Presidents, V.V. Giri (1969) and R. Venkataraman (1987), left office before completing their terms. In both instances, however, they resigned to contest the Presidency. In contrast, Dhankhar stepped down purely for health considerations.
He had suffered a cardiac event in March 2025, though had since resumed his duties and public appearances. His resignation letter conveyed deep appreciation to President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Parliamentarians for their support and trust.
An Eventful Tenure
Before becoming Vice-President, Dhankhar served as Governor of West Bengal, where he had a prominently visible tenure. As Vice-President, he was known for making outspoken public speeches, especially on issues affecting farmers. Coming from a rural and agricultural background, Dhankhar had spoken in favour of initiating open dialogue with protesting farmer groups, most notably in December 2024, during an event with Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
His time in office was not without political turbulence. In late 2024, the opposition had moved an impeachment motion against him, which was rejected by the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairperson Harivansh, calling it an attempt to undermine the dignity of a constitutional post.
What Happens Next?
According to constitutional provisions, the Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha will assume presiding responsibilities in the interim. Although the Constitution does not specify a strict timeline for electing a new Vice-President, the process is generally expedited to fill the role promptly and maintain institutional continuity.
As of now, no official announcement has been made about the election schedule or interim arrangements beyond the Rajya Sabha chairmanship.
Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation leaves a significant void in the country’s constitutional machinery, ending a high-profile yet at times contentious tenure. His departure on health grounds, rather than political ambition, marks a unique moment in India’s democratic journey
