In a significant development, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from his post on July 21, just three years into his five-year term. The 74-year-old submitted a formal resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu, citing the need to “prioritise his health” and adhere to medical advice.
His resignation, which took effect immediately, comes under Article 67(a) of the Indian Constitution, which allows the Vice President to resign by submitting a written letter to the President. With the position now vacant, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh will oversee the functioning of the Upper House until a new Vice President is elected.
The announcement coincided with the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, adding an unexpected twist to the opening day’s proceedings. As the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Dhankhar’s departure leaves a critical role temporarily unoccupied, prompting speculation and discussion on the likely successor.
This marks a rare mid-term exit from one of the nation’s highest constitutional offices and sets in motion the electoral process for choosing a new Vice President — a development that holds both political and procedural significance.
