Jagdeep Dhankhar, India’s 14th Vice President, resigned suddenly on 21 July 2025, citing health reasons as the primary motive. His resignation was formally submitted to President Droupadi Murmu and took immediate effect under Article 67(a) of the Constitution. Dhankhar, aged 74, who assumed office in August 2022 for a five-year term set to end in 2027, had been facing ongoing cardiac health concerns.
The announcement surprised political circles, coming on the first day of Parliament’s Monsoon session. The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is now beginning the process of selecting a new Vice President while Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh is temporarily presiding over Rajya Sabha proceedings. Opposition leaders expressed concern about the timing but respected his decision prioritising health.
A Sudden Resignation Amid Parliamentary Session
Dhankhar’s resignation letter to President Murmu cited medical advice as the impetus behind his unexpected decision. He thanked the President, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the members of Parliament for their “wonderful cooperation and support” during his tenure. The Vice President described his relationship with President Murmu as harmonious, emphasizing the smooth functioning of his constitutional role.
Officials close to Dhankhar revealed that he had been experiencing cardiac problems for several months, including episodes that required hospitalisation and rest. Despite this, he continued to fulfil his duties, including presiding over the Rajya Sabha on the very day he tendered his resignation. His decision, though sudden, was said to reflect prioritisation of personal health without compromising constitutional decorum.
Political Reactions and the Road Ahead
The timing of Dhankhar’s resignation, coinciding with the start of the Monsoon session, led to widespread speculation. Opposition leaders, including Congress’s Jairam Ramesh, expressed surprise and sought clarity on the reasons behind the swift departure but acknowledged the importance of personal health and well-being above politics.
The government and opposition both urged that the moment be treated with respect and sensitivity. Consequently, the resignation triggered a constitutional process that mandates an election for a replacement Vice President at the earliest.
Given the NDA’s commanding majority in the Electoral College, the ruling alliance is actively considering potential successors, including senior central ministers, governors, and party stalwarts. In the interim, Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh has assumed responsibility for conducting the business of the Rajya Sabha.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This unexpected resignation serves as a critical reminder of the often-overlooked human vulnerabilities even among the highest constitutional office holders. While transparency about public officials’ health is essential, it is equally crucial to balance this with empathy and respect for privacy.
Political speculation should not detract from honouring Dhankhar’s service and the dignity of the Vice Presidency. At a time when political polarisation often dominates discourse, such transitions must encourage dialogue steeped in mutual respect, kindness, and understanding.
The Logical Indian urges all stakeholders to focus on collaborative governance and harmonious political engagement through this period of change.
