Jagdeep Dhankhar’s Resignation: A Turning Point in Indian Politics

 

Significance of the Event

The resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar as the Vice President of India on July 21, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s political landscape. As the 14th Vice President and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Dhankhar’s unexpected decision to step down, citing health reasons, has sparked widespread discussions across political circles and the public. This event is significant not only because it interrupts a high-profile tenure but also because it raises questions about the future leadership of the Rajya Sabha and the political dynamics within the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition. The timing, coinciding with the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, adds further intrigue, as it underscores potential underlying tensions or strategic shifts within the government. Dhankhar’s resignation, as the seventh Vice President to not complete a full term, highlights the challenges of balancing health, political responsibilities, and institutional stability in one of India’s highest constitutional offices.

Image Source: x.

          READ MORE: Shilpa Shirodkar

            READ MORE: Vice President of India 

    

Introduction

Jagdeep Dhankhar, a seasoned politician, lawyer, and former Governor of West Bengal, has been a prominent figure in Indian politics. His tenure as Vice President of India, which began in August 2022, was marked by his vocal advocacy for constitutional values, economic nationalism, and a “nation-first” mindset. However, on July 21, 2025, Dhankhar announced his resignation, citing health concerns, after chairing the first day of the Monsoon Session of the Rajya Sabha. This unexpected move has left political analysts, citizens, and lawmakers reflecting on his contributions, the reasons behind his decision, and its implications for India’s political future.

In this blog post, we delve into the life and career of Jagdeep Dhankhar, the circumstances surrounding his resignation, and the broader impact on Indian governance. From his humble beginnings in a Rajasthan village to his rise as a constitutional figure, we explore what made Dhankhar a unique leader and why his departure is a moment of reflection for the nation. Let’s dive into the details of this significant event and its ripple effects.

1. Who is Jagdeep Dhankhar? A Journey from Rajasthan to Rajya Sabha

Jagdeep Dhankhar was born on May 18, 1951, in Kithana, a small village in Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu district, into a Hindu Jat family. His early life was rooted in simplicity, with his parents, Gokal Chand and Kesari Devi, instilling values of hard work and dedication. Dhankhar’s educational journey began at Kithana Government School and continued at Sainik School, Chittorgarh, where he secured a full merit scholarship. He later pursued a B.Sc. in Physics (Honors) and an LLB from the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, laying the foundation for his illustrious legal career.

Dhankhar enrolled as an advocate with the Bar Council of Rajasthan in 1979 and quickly rose to prominence, earning the designation of Senior Advocate by the Rajasthan High Court in 1990. His legal practice, primarily in constitutional law, saw him argue cases in the Supreme Court of India and various high courts. His expertise in constitutional matters and his ability to navigate complex legal disputes earned him widespread respect.

Dhankhar’s political journey began in 1989 when he was elected to the 9th Lok Sabha from Jhunjhunu, representing the Janata Dal. He served as the Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs in the Chandra Shekhar ministry from 1990 to 1991. Over the years, he was affiliated with multiple political parties, including the Janata Dal, Indian National Congress (INC), and later the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which he joined in 2003. His tenure as a Member of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly from Kishangarh (1993–1998) further solidified his political stature.

In 2019, Dhankhar was appointed Governor of West Bengal, a role that brought him into the national spotlight due to his frequent confrontations with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Trinamool Congress government. His outspoken criticism of the state’s administration earned him both supporters and detractors. In 2022, the NDA nominated him as its candidate for Vice President, a position he won with 528 votes against opposition candidate Margaret Alva’s 182, securing a historic 72.8% vote share.

2. The Resignation: Why Did Jagdeep Dhankhar Step Down?

On July 21, 2025, Jagdeep Dhankhar announced his resignation as Vice President of India, citing health concerns as the primary reason. In a letter addressed to President Droupadi Murmu, he 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 came as a shock, as Dhankhar had chaired the Rajya Sabha session earlier that day, showing no public signs of distress.

Dhankhar’s health challenges were not entirely new. Earlier in 2025, he was admitted to the Critical Care Unit at AIIMS-Delhi due to chest pain and uneasiness, though he recovered and resumed his duties. His resignation letter expressed gratitude to President Murmu for her support and reflected on the “soothing, wonderful working relationship” they shared. However, the abrupt timing of his resignation, on the first day of the Monsoon Session, led to speculation about underlying political pressures or strategic motives.

Opposition leaders, including Congress MP Kapil Sibal and Jebi Mather, expressed surprise and sadness, with some questioning whether health was the sole reason. Sibal, who shared a long professional relationship with Dhankhar, wished him well but refrained from speculating further. Congress leader Danish Ali hinted at possible political motivations, noting that recent statements by BJP leaders might have created tensions. Despite these speculations, Dhankhar’s official stance remained focused on health, and no concrete evidence has emerged to suggest otherwise.

Under Article 67 of the Constitution, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha will manage the Upper House’s proceedings until a new Vice President is elected. Dhankhar’s resignation marks him as the seventh Vice President to not complete a full five-year term, adding to the historical significance of the event.

3. Dhankhar’s Tenure as Vice President: Achievements and Controversies

Dhankhar’s tenure as Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman was marked by a commitment to constitutional values and national progress. He was a vocal advocate for economic nationalism, urging citizens to prioritize India’s interests in trade and travel. At the Jaipuria Institute of Management’s convocation in 2025, he emphasized the need to refrain from supporting countries acting against India’s interests during crises. His speeches often highlighted the importance of a “nation-first” mindset, particularly among the youth, whom he saw as the driving force behind India’s growth.

As Rajya Sabha Chairman, Dhankhar was known for his efforts to maintain decorum while addressing contentious issues. He reconstituted the panel of vice-chairpersons to include 50% women MPs, promoting gender inclusivity. He also took a firm stance against the frequent use of Rule 267, which allows MPs to raise urgent matters, arguing that its overuse disrupted parliamentary proceedings. His handling of the Justice Yashwant Varma impeachment motion, where he identified a duplicated signature among 55 MPs’ requests, showcased his attention to procedural integrity.

However, Dhankhar’s tenure was not without controversy. His criticism of the judiciary, particularly over the Supreme Court’s observations on presidential actions, sparked debates about judicial overreach. He asserted the supremacy of elected representatives and Parliament, drawing sharp responses from opposition leaders like Kapil Sibal, who defended the judiciary’s role in interpreting the Constitution. Dhankhar’s remarks on the 1975 Emergency as the “darkest period for the Constitution” and his concerns about “orchestrated, financially backed misadventures” aimed at conversions further polarized opinions.

His tenure as Governor of West Bengal also left a lasting impression, with frequent clashes with Mamata Banerjee’s government. The Trinamool Congress labeled him the “real leader of the opposition” due to his vocal critiques, while Banerjee herself blocked him on social media in 2022, accusing him of unethical behavior. Despite these tensions, Dhankhar’s legal acumen and constitutional knowledge earned him respect as a formidable figure.

4. The Impact of Dhankhar’s Resignation on Indian Politics

Dhankhar’s resignation has far-reaching implications for India’s political landscape. As Rajya Sabha Chairman, he played a crucial role in maintaining legislative balance, and his departure creates a temporary leadership vacuum. The Deputy Chairman will oversee proceedings, but the election of a new Vice President will be a closely watched process, reflecting the NDA’s priorities and the opposition’s strategy.

The timing of the resignation, during the Monsoon Session, adds complexity. The session is critical for passing key legislation, and any disruption in leadership could affect its productivity. The opposition, already vocal about Dhankhar’s perceived bias, may use this opportunity to push for a more neutral Chairman. Meanwhile, the NDA will likely seek a candidate who aligns with its vision of strong governance and economic nationalism.

Dhankhar’s exit also raises questions about the BJP’s internal dynamics. As a prominent Jat leader from Rajasthan, he was seen as a bridge between rural and urban constituencies. His resignation could prompt the BJP to reassess its outreach to the Jat community, especially in states like Rajasthan and Haryana, where caste dynamics play a significant role.

On a broader level, Dhankhar’s resignation underscores the challenges of health management for public figures in high-stress roles. It serves as a reminder of the need for institutional mechanisms to ensure continuity in governance while respecting personal well-being.

5. What Lies Ahead for Jagdeep Dhankhar?

At 74, Dhankhar’s resignation does not necessarily mark the end of his public life. His legal expertise, political experience, and commitment to public service suggest he may continue to influence India’s discourse, perhaps as an advisor, commentator, or advocate for causes like farmers’ rights and constitutional values. His emphasis on direct subsidies for farmers and his critique of VIP culture in temples reflect a deep connection to grassroots issues, which could guide his future endeavors.

Dhankhar’s health will likely be his immediate priority, but his legacy as a constitutional scholar and public servant will endure. His daughter, Kamna, and wife, Dr. Sudesh Dhankhar, a postgraduate in economics with interests in social work and organic farming, may also play a role in supporting his future initiatives.

6. Public and Political Reactions

The public and political reactions to Dhankhar’s resignation have been mixed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised his deep understanding of the Constitution, while President Droupadi Murmu extended heartfelt wishes for his recovery. Opposition leaders like Jairam Ramesh and Derek O’Brien, while expressing concern, highlighted ongoing tensions over Dhankhar’s handling of Rajya Sabha proceedings. Social media platforms have seen an outpouring of support from citizens, with many appreciating his contributions to constitutional discourse and national pride.

Some netizens speculated about political motives, but the lack of concrete evidence has kept the focus on health concerns. The Jat community, particularly in Rajasthan, has expressed pride in Dhankhar’s achievements while wishing him well. Overall, the sentiment reflects respect for his service and hope for his recovery.

FAQs

Q1: Why did Jagdeep Dhankhar resign as Vice President?
A: Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on July 21, 2025, citing health concerns and the need to prioritize medical advice. He had previously been hospitalized for chest pain and uneasiness in 2025.

Q2: Who will replace Jagdeep Dhankhar as Vice President?
A: Under Article 67 of the Constitution, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha will manage proceedings until a new Vice President is elected. The election process will depend on the NDA and opposition’s nominations.

Q3: What was Jagdeep Dhankhar’s role before becoming Vice President?
A: Dhankhar served as the Governor of West Bengal from 2019 to 2022. He was also a Lok Sabha MP, Rajasthan MLA, and a Senior Advocate practicing constitutional law.

Q4: How did Dhankhar’s tenure as Vice President impact India?
A: Dhankhar promoted economic nationalism, gender inclusivity in the Rajya Sabha, and constitutional values. His criticism of judicial overreach and advocacy for farmers’ rights sparked significant debates.

Q5: What controversies surrounded Dhankhar’s tenure?
A: Dhankhar faced criticism for his clashes with the West Bengal government as Governor and for his remarks on judicial overreach as Vice President. His handling of Rajya Sabha proceedings also drew opposition scrutiny.

Conclusion

Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation as Vice President of India is more than a personal decision; it is a moment that prompts reflection on leadership, health, and the evolving nature of Indian politics. From his humble beginnings in Kithana to his role as the second-highest constitutional officer, Dhankhar’s journey embodies resilience, intellect, and a commitment to national progress. His tenure, though cut short, leaves a legacy of advocating for constitutional supremacy, economic nationalism, and inclusive governance.

As India navigates this transition, the focus will be on how the NDA and opposition shape the future of the Vice Presidency and the Rajya Sabha. For now, Dhankhar’s story serves as an inspiration—a reminder that even in the face of challenges, a leader’s dedication to the nation can leave an indelible mark. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to his continued contributions to India’s growth.