Dhankhar’s exit raises political eyebrows: Health cited, but speculation grows

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar's abrupt resignation has stirred a political storm, with reactions pouring in and speculation mounting about what might have prompted such an early exit. Though his resignation letter cited health-related reasons, many observers find the move both surprising and significant.

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Earlier this year, Dhankhar underwent an angioplasty procedure at AIIMS, Delhi, and had been briefly hospitalised. Despite a visibly frail appearance at some public events, he continued to engage actively in parliamentary duties, raising questions about the timing and reasoning behind his decision.

During his tenure, Dhankhar also became the first Vice President in independent India to face a removal motion, though the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman Harivansh later dismissed it. No official word has been issued yet on who will succeed Dhankhar. The Constitution does not directly state who should take over the Vice President’s full responsibilities, but in the event of a vacancy, Rajya Sabha’s deputy chairman or a member nominated by the President can perform the chairperson’s role.

The ruling NDA coalition, which has a majority in the Electoral College responsible for electing the Vice President, is expected to finalise a candidate soon. Names like Harivansh, who has been the deputy chairman since 2020 and is considered close to the government, are already doing the rounds.

As per Article 66 of the Constitution, the Vice President is elected by members of both Houses of Parliament using a proportional representation voting system. Eligibility requires Indian citizenship, a minimum age of 35 years, and qualification for Rajya Sabha membership, excluding those holding offices of profit under government bodies.

Opposition leaders, including Congress's Jairam Ramesh, expressed shock and hinted that Dhankhar’s resignation might involve deeper political undercurrents. Dhankhar now joins the rare league of Vice Presidents like V.V. Giri and Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, who also resigned before completing their terms, though under different circumstances.