Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns as Vice President Amid Tensions Over Judicial Motion and Political Rift
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s unexpected resignation on Monday evening has triggered intense political speculation.
His official reason—citing health concerns—has raised eyebrows due to its timing and the events surrounding it. The resignation was announced just hours after the start of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.
Impeachment Notice and Political Backlash
The turning point appeared to be the acceptance of an Opposition-backed motion seeking the removal of Justice Yashwant Varma.
Justice Varma came under scrutiny following the discovery of large sums of cash at his official residence. Despite denying any wrongdoing, the incident prompted over 50 Opposition MPs to sign a motion for his removal.
When the Rajya Sabha convened for the Monsoon Session, Vice President Dhankhar, who also serves as Chairman of the Upper House, accepted the motion.
He directed the Secretary-General to proceed accordingly. This move, sources suggest, did not align with the government’s plan to lead its own initiative against judicial corruption. Tensions escalated, and murmurs of a no-confidence motion against Dhankhar began circulating.
Resignation Letter and Official Announcement
At 9:25 pm on July 21, the official handle of the Vice President on X shared a resignation letter addressed to President Droupadi Murmu.
In the letter, 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 gratitude to the President, the Prime Minister, and Members of Parliament, writing, “The warmth, trust, and affection I have received from all the Hon’ble Members of Parliament would ever be cherished at and embedded in my memory.” President Murmu accepted the resignation the following day.
Reactions from Political Circles
Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished Dhankhar good health and acknowledged his contributions. “Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji has got many opportunities to serve our country in various capacities, including as the Vice President of India,” he posted.
However, the resignation puzzled the Opposition. Congress leaders described the move as “inexplicable” and “a riddle wrapped in mystery rolled in an enigma.” Mallikarjun Kharge said, “Only he knows the reason. We have nothing to say on this.”
Clash Over Parliamentary Protocols
Opposition members also pointed to Union Minister JP Nadda’s remarks during Kharge’s Rajya Sabha address. “Only what I say will go on record,” said Nadda, a statement interpreted by some as disrespectful to the Chair.
Mr Dhankhar was reportedly upset. Adding to the tension, both Nadda and Minister Kiren Rijiju skipped the 4:30 pm business advisory committee meeting. Their absence was seen as a slight.
Nadda later clarified that their absence was due to another engagement and had been communicated in advance. He also explained his Rajya Sabha remark was aimed at interrupting MPs, not the Vice President.
Timeline of Key Events
12:30 pm, July 21: Dhankhar attends the business advisory committee meeting, a second session is scheduled for later.
2:00 pm: He accepts the motion against Justice Varma.
4:07 pm: The House is informed of the acceptance.
4:30 pm: The committee meets again, but no government representatives attend.
5:00 pm: Congress leaders meet Dhankhar.
9:25 pm: His resignation is posted online.
12:00 pm, July 22: President Murmu accepts the resignation.
Reactions from Across the Aisle
Leaders from various parties voiced their surprise. Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Anand Dubey asked, “What is going on in this government?” He questioned the timing, saying health concerns could have been addressed earlier or later.
Congress MP Manish Tewari called the move “totally unexpected,” adding, “Clearly there is far more to his totally unexpected resignation than meets the eye.”
Jairam Ramesh termed the resignation “unprecedented” and noted Dhankhar’s discontent over the missed meeting.
A Political Journey Marked by Legal Rigor
Jagdeep Dhankhar began his political journey in 1989, elected as an MP from Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu. In 2003, he joined the BJP and led its legal department.
He served as Governor of West Bengal in 2019, often clashing with the Trinamool Congress government. After being nominated as Vice President in 2022, he resigned as Governor and took office in August.
Health Concerns and the Road Ahead
In March, Dhankhar underwent angioplasty in Delhi but returned quickly to his duties. As per Article 67(a), his resignation now leaves the Vice President’s post vacant.
Responsibilities may be temporarily assigned to the Deputy Chairperson of Rajya Sabha or another appointee by the President.
