New Delhi | July 21, 2025 | Updated: 22:13 IST
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from his post late Monday night, citing health concerns and the need to focus on medical treatment. His resignation, submitted to President Droupadi Murmu, takes immediate effect. Sources indicate he is unlikely to attend Tuesday’s Parliament session.
In his resignation letter, Dhankhar expressed gratitude to the President for her “unwavering support” and described their working relationship as “soothing and wonderful.” He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Council of Ministers for their cooperation, adding that the warmth and respect shown by Members of Parliament would remain cherished memories.
Reflecting on his tenure, Dhankhar called it a “period of insight and privilege,” saying he was honored to contribute to India’s economic transformation. “Serving during this pivotal phase in our nation’s journey has been a profound honor,” he wrote, expressing pride in India’s global ascent and confidence in its future.
His resignation followed what turned out to be his final session as Rajya Sabha Chairman earlier in the day. Addressing the monsoon session, Dhankhar had urged lawmakers to prioritize constructive dialogue over political discord. “A thriving democracy cannot thrive on constant conflict. Reducing political tension is essential—confrontation is not the essence of governance,” he said.
He appealed to both the ruling and opposition benches to foster mutual respect, stating, “While parties may differ in approach, no one works against national interests. Progress lies in discussion, not division.”
Earlier in the session, Dhankhar had announced the receipt of a motion signed by over 50 MPs seeking the removal of Delhi High Court Judge Justice Yashwant Varma. Citing constitutional provisions, he confirmed that the process for forming an inquiry committee would begin, as a similar motion had been filed in the Lok Sabha.
He also referenced a December 2024 motion by 55 MPs seeking the removal of an Allahabad High Court judge—reportedly Justice Shekhar Yadav—noting discrepancies in signatures that delayed proceedings. “Verification is still underway,” he stated.
Dhankhar, 74, a senior advocate and former West Bengal Governor, took office as India’s 14th Vice President in August 2022. The Vice President’s term was until August 10, 2027. His tenure in West Bengal was marked by frequent tensions with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s government over issues including governance, education, and alleged political violence.
The Vice President serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the upper house of Parliament, the Rajya Sabha, and is responsible for presiding over its proceedings. Following Dhankhar’s resignation, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha will assume the duties of the Chairman until a new Vice President is appointed.
As per Article 91 of the Constitution, the Deputy Chairman will act as the presiding officer while the Vice President’s post remains vacant. Currently, Harivansh Narayan Singh holds the position of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman. However, his term is also set to end this month, which could lead to further developments in the appointment process.