New Delhi: In a surprise move, Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from his post on Monday, citing health reasons. His resignation, effective immediately, was submitted to President Droupadi Murmu in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution of India.
The 74-year-old leader, who also served as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, said he was stepping down “to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice.” His departure comes on the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament and marks an abrupt end to a tenure that was expected to continue until 2027.
In his resignation letter addressed to the President, Dhankhar expressed heartfelt gratitude to the nation's leadership and Parliament. 'I extend my deepest gratitude to Your Excellency - the Hon’ble President of India - for her unwavering support and the soothing, wonderful working relationship we maintained during my tenure,' he wrote.
He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Council of Ministers, calling their cooperation 'invaluable' and saying he had learned much during his time in office. Dhankhar conveyed special appreciation to the Members of Parliament, stating that the 'warmth, trust, and affection' he received from them would remain cherished memories.
Reflecting on his term, he wrote: 'It has been a privilege and satisfaction to witness and partake in India's remarkable economic progress and unprecedented exponential development during this significant period.' He added that he leaves office 'filled with pride in Bharat's global rise and phenomenal achievements,' and with 'unwavering confidence in her brilliant future.'
Dhankhar, who served as Governor of West Bengal from 2019 to 2022, was elected as the Vice President of India in 2022.
With his resignation, a constitutional vacuum emerges in the Vice President’s role. The Constitution does not outline a specific mechanism to fill the Vice President’s duties mid-term. However, during the vacancy, the Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha or another member authorised by the President will preside over its proceedings.
The government is expected to announce the next steps regarding the vacancy in the coming days.
BI Bureau
