Mamata Banerjee Questions Vice-President Dhankhar’s Sudden Resignation Citing Health Issues

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed suspicion over the unexpected resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, suggesting there may be more to the development than just health issues.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, she refrained from making a direct comment but noted her belief that Dhankhar is “absolutely fine.”

Tense History Between Banerjee and Dhankhar

Before assuming the role of Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar served as the Governor of West Bengal, during which his relationship with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was consistently strained.

The two were frequently at odds, with numerous confrontations, public letters, and accusations. Banerjee had earlier accused him of crossing constitutional lines, while Dhankhar often criticised the TMC-led state government.

At a press conference held at Nabanna, the state secretariat, Banerjee commented, “Political parties cannot decide why Mr. Dhankhar resigned. I have no comments on the issue.”

She added, “Let us watch. He is a healthy man. I think his health is absolutely fine.”

Opposition Questions the Reasoning Behind Resignation

Banerjee was not alone in her doubts. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh also voiced concern about Dhankhar’s sudden decision.

On Tuesday, Ramesh questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s social media praise for Dhankhar and suggested the resignation may have been “forced.”

TMC’s Kunal Ghosh echoed similar sentiments, questioning the justification behind the resignation.

In a social media post, he wrote, “Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation. Is health the only reason? If so, get well soon. Otherwise, curiosity remains.”

Later, Ghosh told reporters that the party leadership was still monitoring the situation, stating, “He has cited health reasons, so we wish him good health.”

TMC MP and senior leader Sushmita Dev was also surprised by the resignation. “I did see some news that he was not keeping well. But one did not imagine that it was serious enough for him to step down. I thought he would go on leave, recover and come back, so I was quite surprised by his decision,” she told a news channel.

Resignation Sparks Political Storm

Dhankhar’s resignation came on Monday evening after he presided over the opening day of the Monsoon Session in Rajya Sabha, which was marked by disruptions.

The resignation letter, submitted under Article 67(a) of the Constitution, cited health care as the primary reason.

“In accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately, to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice,” Dhankhar wrote in his letter to President Droupadi Murmu.

President Murmu accepted the resignation on Tuesday. Following this, Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh will handle routine duties until a new Vice President is elected.

Unusual Silence from the Ruling Alliance

The ruling BJP-led alliance’s reaction to Dhankhar’s resignation has been notably subdued. The usual public praise extended to departing office-bearers was absent.

Interestingly, it was the Opposition—who had previously moved a motion to impeach Dhankhar—who had kind words and wishes for him after the announcement.

This lack of enthusiasm from the government has further fueled speculation about internal disagreements or political maneuvering behind the scenes.

Banerjee Slams BJP

During her remarks, Banerjee also took a swipe at the BJP. “First set your own house in order. Douse the fire inside your own house before you try to put it out elsewhere. Sort your own house first and no need to target Bengal,” she stated.

A History of Conflict with the TMC

Dhankhar had frequent run-ins with the TMC government during his time as governor from 2019 to 2022. He was often accused of creating unrest and interfering with state matters.

He frequently used his official X account to criticise the state administration, prompting Banerjee to block him. Dhankhar, in turn, complained of verbal attacks and “indignities” from state ministers.

Despite the long-standing hostility, Banerjee maintained a cautious tone following his resignation, suggesting a strategic wait-and-watch approach.

Looking Ahead

Dhankhar, who took office as Vice President in August 2022, was expected to complete his term in 2027. His mid-term resignation now makes him the third Vice President in India’s history to step down before completing the tenure.

As the nation awaits further developments, the circumstances surrounding Dhankhar’s resignation remain unclear.

A new Vice President will be chosen soon, but political observers and opposition leaders continue to scrutinise the timing and motivation behind this unexpected exit.