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Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns Citing Health, Triggers Race for Successor Amid Parliament Monsoon Session Drama

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar submitted his resignation, citing health issues. The dramatic turn of events shook up the Monsoon Session before it had even gotten off the ground. The action surprised the political circles, preparing the stage for a high-tension contest for India’s second-highest constitutional office.

Jagdeep Dhankhar Steps Down as Vice President; NDA Rushes to Find Replacement

In a political surprise no one anticipated, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from office on Monday evening, following medical advice. The unexpected resignation, which was handed to President Droupadi Murmu, came into effect immediately, on the very first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

This sudden withdrawal has triggered a constitutional and political rush to choose India’s future vice president. This process has to start ‘as soon as possible,’ as required under Article 68(2) of the Constitution.

Health First: Dhankhar Bows Out

“To put health care first and follow medical guidance, I hereby resign as India’s Vice President with immediate effect,” Dhankhar stated in his resignation letter. The 74-year-old leader, who took office in August 2022, was scheduled to hold office till 2027.

His resignation took even his senior staff by surprise. Several MPs were allegedly not informed until the announcement came officially, making this one of the most unexpected top-level departures in recent political history.

VP Race Starts: Harivansh, Governors in Limbo

With the constitutional chair vacant, the BJP-driven National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is likely to make its choice soon. JD(U) MP Harivansh Singh, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, is being widely suggested as a prime candidate. 

An experienced parliamentarian and the government’s friendly face, Singh has occupied the deputy chairman’s chair since 2020.

Sources indicate that the NDA is also considering other options, including state governors at present and senior ministers with a parliamentary background. An uncontroversial, seasoned face will be preferred, as was the case with previous appointments such as M Venkaiah Naidu and Dhankhar himself.

What Next?

The Constitution requires that an election to the position must be held without delay. Article 68(2) specifically provides that a vacancy arising from resignation, death, or removal must be filled “as soon as possible.” The winner will have a full five-year term from the date of assumption of office.

Until the office of the successor is filled, the Rajya Sabha can be presided over by the Deputy Chairman or by any member of the House appointed by the President.

How VP is Elected

The Vice President is elected by a secret ballot by an Electoral College of members of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, by the system of proportional representation through a single transferable vote.

Requirements to Qualify

To qualify, a candidate must be:

A citizen of India

At least 35 years of age

Eligible for election to the Rajya Sabha

Not an office of profit under the government

Dhankhar’s Tenure: A Polarising Legacy

Jagdeep Dhankhar’s tenure was characterized by constant sparring with opposition leaders in the Rajya Sabha. Famous for his caustic remarks on politically sensitive topics, his resignation today leaves a key position wide open, and political Delhi is abuzz.