NEW DELHI: President Droupadi Murmu has accepted the resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, effective immediately. Dhankhar, who assumed office in August 2022, tendered his resignation on Monday, citing health reasons and the need to follow medical advice.
In his resignation letter submitted under Article 67(a) of the Constitution, Dhankhar stated, “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.”
The announcement of his resignation came as a surprise, coinciding with the commencement of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. Dhankhar, 74, had been serving as the 14th Vice President of India and was also the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. His tenure was originally set to conclude in August 2027.
The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notification on Tuesday confirming the acceptance of his resignation. BJP MP Ghanshyam Tiwari, who was in the Chair in the Rajya Sabha, announced the Home Ministry’s notification regarding Dhankhar’s resignation with immediate effect.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his good wishes to Dhankhar, acknowledging his service to the nation. However, the suddenness of the resignation has led to speculation among political circles and opposition parties, with some suggesting “far deeper reasons” than just health concerns.
With the Vice President’s post now vacant, the Election Commission of India is expected to announce a schedule for the election of a new Vice President soon, as the constitutional office cannot be left vacant. The Constitution mandates that the vacancy must be filled “as soon as possible.”
