Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns Citing Health Reasons; PM Modi Acknowledges His Service
New Delhi, 22nd July 2025: In a significant political development, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from his post on the opening day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, citing health concerns. The resignation was formally submitted to President Droupadi Murmu and accepted with immediate effect.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to the move by extending his wishes for Dhankhar’s well-being and acknowledging his longstanding service to the nation. “Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji has got many opportunities to serve our country in various capacities, including as the Vice President of India. Wishing him good health,” the Prime Minister wrote on social media platform X.
Dhankhar, 74, who assumed office as Vice President in August 2022 and concurrently held the role of Rajya Sabha Chairman, was expected to serve until 2027. However, in his resignation letter, he invoked Article 67(a) of the Constitution, stating, “To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately.”
He also expressed gratitude to President Murmu for her consistent support and described their professional association as “soothing” and “wonderful.” In addition, Dhankhar acknowledged the backing he received from Prime Minister Modi and the Union Cabinet, saying, “The Prime Minister’s cooperation and support have been invaluable, and I have learned much during my time in office.”
Amid his sudden exit, political speculation has begun to surface. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi hinted at possible friction, saying, “The relationship between the Vice President and the Centre doesn’t seem like before.”
Before taking up the Vice Presidency, Dhankhar served as Governor of West Bengal, where his tenure was marked by frequent clashes with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s government. His outspoken style and assertive approach often drew national attention and controversy.
His departure now creates a vacancy in one of the highest constitutional offices of India, prompting political circles to closely watch the Centre’s next move regarding the succession plan.
