Jagdeep Dhankhar Surprise Resignation

Key Facts

Resignation effective July 21, 2025, submitted under Article 67(a) of the Constitution – he’s only the third Vice President ever to resign mid-term.

He stepped down due to health concerns and following medical advice, without disclosing specifics.

In his letter to President Droupadi Murmu, he expressed gratitude for their “wonderful working relationship” and thanked PM Modi, Council of Ministers, and MPs for their support.

 What Happens Next?

Vacancy in office begins immediately. The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, currently Harivansh Narayan Singh, will temporarily chair the Upper House during the Monsoon Session.

A new Vice President must be elected within 60 days, as per Articles 63-71 and the Vice-President (Election) Rules, 1974 – likely by mid-September 2025.

Potential successors include senior NDA figures such as governors or Union ministers; Harivansh’s name is also being discussed.

Health Context

Dhankhar had a cardiac issue in March, hospitalized at AIIMS, and fainted during an event at Kumaon University in June.

While no official medical details were shared, these incidents lend credibility to his health rationale.

Political Fallout & Speculation

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh commented that there might be “more than meets the eye,” prompting political speculation.

Media reports describe the move as a “surprise exit”, with the NDA abruptly needing to identify a viable substitute.

Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation-driven by health reasons-is historic, creating an unexpected constitutional vacancy. The Rajya Sabha’s deputy chair will step in, and an election to select a new Vice President must occur within two months. While health-related, the move has sparked political chatter and internal discussions within the NDA on suitable successors.