India to Elect New Vice President on September 9 Following Jagdeep Dhankhar’s Resignation
- MGMMTeam
- Aug 2
- 4 min read
India is poised to elect its next Vice President on September 9, 2025, following the unexpected resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar. The announcement by the Election Commission of India (ECI) on August 1 comes at a politically significant time, triggering the process to fill the country’s second-highest constitutional post.
A Sudden Departure from the Rajya Sabha Chair
Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation from the post of Vice President on July 21, 2025, sent ripples through India’s political corridors. Citing personal health reasons and medical advice, Dhankhar stepped down nearly two years before his term was due to end. His resignation, although softened by health concerns, has sparked widespread debate, with some interpreting it as a potential political move or prelude to a new role within or outside the ruling dispensation.
During his tenure, Dhankhar played an active and sometimes combative role as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, earning both admiration and criticism. His abrupt exit has left a vacuum in the Upper House, currently being filled by Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh, who has taken charge of proceedings in the interim.
The Election Schedule and Constitutional Mandate
As mandated under Article 68(2) of the Indian Constitution, any vacancy in the office of the Vice President due to resignation must be filled at the earliest. Upholding this constitutional obligation, the ECI announced that the election process will commence with the issue of notification on August 7. Candidates can file nominations until August 21, followed by scrutiny on August 22. The deadline for withdrawing nominations is August 25. If required, the poll will be conducted on September 9, with counting and results scheduled for the same evening.
The winner of this election will not merely complete the remaining term but will serve a full five-year tenure, commencing from the day they assume office. This detail distinguishes the Vice Presidential election process from certain other constitutional vacancies where a successor may only complete an existing term.
Electoral Process and Voting Methodology
The Vice President of India is elected by an electoral college composed of members of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, including nominated members. The voting takes place through a secret ballot system using proportional representation via the single transferable vote. Each member of the electoral college casts a ranked vote, and no party whips are permitted, allowing MPs to vote according to their conscience.
Unlike the Presidential election, there is no differential vote value. Every Member of Parliament's vote carries equal weight. The election will be conducted inside the new Parliament building, adding symbolic significance to this year’s process. This is the first major constitutional election to take place within the new complex, further elevating its ceremonial importance.
Eligibility and Nomination Criteria
To be eligible for contesting the Vice Presidential election, a candidate must be an Indian citizen aged 35 years or above and qualified to be elected to the Rajya Sabha. Each nomination must be endorsed by at least 20 proposers and 20 seconders, who must be members of the electoral college. Additionally, a security deposit of ₹15,000 is required to file the nomination.
Strict rules have been laid out regarding the secrecy of voting. Ballots marked with any pen other than the one officially provided or those where the vote is disclosed are liable to be rejected. This system ensures the sanctity and confidentiality of the process, reinforcing the non-partisan nature of the office.
Political Significance and Speculation Over Candidates
While the official list of candidates is yet to be declared, political analysts are closely watching both the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc for their choices. The Vice Presidential post is largely ceremonial, yet symbolically powerful. The office also plays a crucial role in moderating and guiding debates in the Rajya Sabha, especially during times of political turbulence.
In past elections, opposition parties have occasionally rallied behind a common nominee to mount symbolic resistance to the ruling party’s dominance. Whether such a united front materializes this year remains to be seen. On the other hand, the BJP-led NDA may choose a senior leader or a consensus candidate with cross-party appeal, keeping in mind the political messaging ahead of the 2029 general elections.
Dhankhar’s Legacy and What Lies Ahead
Jagdeep Dhankhar’s political journey, from a lawyer and Governor of West Bengal to Vice President of India, has been marked by assertiveness and a combative tone in Parliament. Known for his strong stance against the opposition and his frequent interventions in the Upper House, he often stood at the center of political debates.
His early exit not only ends a high-profile tenure but also opens the door for fresh leadership at a time when the Rajya Sabha is expected to play a vital role in shaping legislative agendas during the remainder of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s term. Dhankhar’s resignation may also prompt speculation about his next political move or possible return to active politics in a different capacity.
Conclusion: A Moment of Democratic Transition
The upcoming election for the Vice President marks a pivotal moment in India’s ongoing democratic journey. While the post may not carry executive power, it holds immense constitutional and symbolic significance. As the nation prepares to elect a new face for this high office, the process reflects not just the procedural strength of India’s democracy but also the evolving contours of its political landscape.
The outcome on September 9 will not only determine who presides over the Rajya Sabha for the next five years but may also offer clues to the emerging political narratives ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.
(Sources: India Today, NDTV, Moneycontrol)
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