Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns as Vice President of India, Cites Health Concerns

Jagdeep Dhankhar, aged 74, has stepped down from his role as Vice President of India, stating health issues as the reason for his resignation. In a letter addressed to President Droupadi Murmu, he declared that his resignation would take effect immediately.

In his official correspondence, Dhankhar expressed that he is prioritising his health in accordance with medical guidance. He referenced Article 67(a) of the Indian Constitution as the basis for his decision, stating, "To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately."

His resignation notice was submitted late on an evening when he participated in a significant session of the Rajya Sabha, where he administered the oath of office to eight new members.

Dhankhar extended his gratitude to President Murmu for her steadfast support during his time in office and acknowledged the valuable cooperation he received from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Council of Ministers. He remarked, "I express my deep gratitude to the Hon'ble Prime Minister and the esteemed Council of Ministers. The Prime Minister's cooperation and support have been invaluable, and I have learned much during my time in office."

Earlier this year, Dhankhar was hospitalised at the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences due to cardiac-related complications. In a separate incident last month, he fainted while attending the Golden Jubilee celebrations at Kumaon University, further highlighting health concerns that likely influenced his decision to resign.

Having assumed office in 2022 after defeating opposition candidate Margaret Alva, Dhankhar was expected to serve a full term of five years. His departure marks him as the third Vice President in Indian history to resign before completing the term, joining VV Giri, who stepped down in 1969, and R. Venkataraman, who resigned in 1987.

Before his tenure as Vice President, Dhankhar was known for his role as the Governor of West Bengal, where he had notable confrontations with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, drawing considerable media attention. During his nomination, Prime Minister Modi had expressed confidence in Dhankhar's constitutional knowledge and legislative experience, anticipating an "excellent, inspiring" term.

Following Dhankhar's resignation, the Vice Presidential secretariat released a note indicating that a new election will be conducted to fill the vacancy created by his departure. The election will take place at the earliest convenience, allowing the newly elected individual to serve a complete term of five years from the date they assume office.