New Delhi, July 22:
Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar has officially resigned from his post, citing health concerns and the need to abide by medical advice. The resignation, effective immediately, was submitted under Article 67(a) of the Constitution of India. Dhankhar, who assumed office as the 14th Vice President in 2022, had a tenure slated to last until 2027.
The 74-year-old also held the constitutional position of Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. His resignation came on the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, marking a significant development in India’s political landscape.
“Prioritising Health Care,” Says Dhankhar in Resignation Letter
In his letter addressed to President Droupadi Murmu, Dhankhar wrote:
“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.”
He expressed deep gratitude to the President, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Council of Ministers, and Members of Parliament, acknowledging their support and collaboration during his tenure.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to Your Excellency – the Hon’ble President of India for her unwavering support… Prime Minister’s cooperation and support have been invaluable, and I have learned much during my time in office,” Dhankhar wrote.
He further added,
“The warmth, trust, and affection I have received from all the Hon’ble Members of Parliament would ever be cherished and embedded in my memory.”
A Tenure Marked by Political Engagement
Prior to his role as Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar served as the Governor of West Bengal from 2019 to 2022, where he was known for his active involvement in state politics. As Vice President, he played a key role in moderating debates in the Rajya Sabha and represented India on various global platforms.
Reflecting on his term, he stated,
“I am deeply thankful for the invaluable experiences and insights I have gained as Vice President in our great democracy… Serving in this transformative era of our nation’s history has been a true honor.”
Who Will Take Over Rajya Sabha Chairmanship?
While the Constitution does not lay out specific provisions for a sudden vacancy in the office of the Vice President, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha or another member authorized by the President of India will take over the responsibilities of chairing the Upper House.
There is no fixed timeline in the Constitution for when a new Vice President must be elected in case of a mid-term vacancy. However, the process is expected to commence soon through a schedule announced by the Election Commission of India.
