In a move that has sent shockwaves through Indian politics, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on the first day of the Monsoon Parliament Session, citing health reasons. According to The Times of India, the shock exit of Jagdeep Dhankhar as Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman has set off intense speculation, raising questions about the real triggers behind this constitutional upheaval. Alongside “health concerns,” the unprecedented timing – just two years into his tenure – has ignited debates about deeper political undercurrents in Parliament and within the ruling party.
Timeline: From Routine Proceedings to National Shock
Until late afternoon on July 21, all appeared normal: Dhankhar presided over a busy opening day in Rajya Sabha, administered oaths to new members, and participated in a meeting of the Business Advisory Committee. There was no public hint of distress. A government statement at 3:53pm even mentioned his upcoming trip to Jaipur during the ongoing session, a detail that raised some eyebrows. Hours later, Dhankhar delivered his resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu, “to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice,” effective immediately under Article 67(a) of the Constitution.
Immediate Aftermath: Vacuum at the Top and Unanswered Questions
With Dhankhar’s shock exit, Deputy Chairperson Harivansh Narayan Singh is set to preside over Rajya Sabha until a new Vice President is elected. According to constitutional guidelines, an election for the post must be completed within 60 days of the resignation, with both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs forming the electoral college for voting.
New Leadership Race: The BJP-led NDA holds a parliamentary majority and discussions have already begun on possible successors, with speculation ranging from senior party leaders to experienced Union ministers.
Disrupted Proceedings: Dhankhar’s departure throws ongoing parliamentary business into uncertainty, particularly amid a tense Monsoon Session.
Reactions: “More Political Than Medical”?
While the official reason remains “medical advice,” Opposition parties and several political observers are far from convinced. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh emphasized that he was with Dhankhar earlier the same day, seeing no sign of impending resignation. Others have questioned whether “political ill-health” rather than physical health was the real motivation, alluding to possible internal party dynamics or institutional tension as underlying causes.
Ramesh highlighted that Dhankhar had marked significant judiciary-related announcements and business for the session just before stepping down. Political rivals and allies alike noted that Dhankhar’s confrontation with Opposition benches and his proactive, sometimes controversial, role as chairman made him a figure at the center of several parliamentary stand-offs.
Dhankhar’s Legacy: From Governor to Parliament’s Center Stage
Jagdeep Dhankhar, sworn in as Vice President in August 2022 and previously the Governor of West Bengal, was known for his robust engagement with both the Opposition and judiciary. His tenure was marked by several heated debates and even a rare no-confidence motion from the Opposition, which was eventually rejected. Observers now point out that while previous Vice Presidents, such as VV Giri and R Venkataraman, resigned only to contest Presidential polls, Dhankhar’s abrupt move stands apart, coming with no immediate electoral contest in sight.
What Happens Next? Constitutional Provisions and Political Ramifications
With Deputy Chairperson Harivansh Narayan Singh stepping in, the Rajya Sabha retains procedural continuity, but the absence of an elected Vice President introduces uncertainty. An election for the new Vice President must be concluded within sixty days, involving both houses of Parliament in a secret ballot. The focus is now on who the leading candidates will be. Names of senior BJP leaders and seasoned parliamentarians are already circulating, indicating a fiercely contested electoral process ahead.
The Election Commission will announce the poll date soon, with the winner inheriting significant responsibility in a politically charged climate.
Photo Credit: NDTV
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