Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns as Vice President: Amit Shah Addresses Speculation

In a development that has captured national attention, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar submitted his resignation on July 21, 2025, citing personal health reasons. This sudden move, effective immediately, marks a rare mid-term resignation from the Vice President’s office and has stirred speculation across political circles.

Amit Shah reacted to Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation as Vice President.(File Photo)

Official Explanation: Health Concerns at the Forefront

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the rumors and speculation in an exclusive interview with ANI, emphasizing that Dhankhar’s resignation was entirely due to health reasons. Shah highlighted that the former Vice President had expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister and other government officials for their support during his tenure.

Dismissing allegations of coercion or "house arrest," Shah remarked that the resignation should not be overanalyzed. "We shouldn’t make a fuss out of all this. Dhankhar held a constitutional post and discharged his duties as per the Constitution. He resigned due to personal health reasons. One should not deliberate much on the issue," he stated. The government’s stance aimed to calm speculation while reaffirming the legitimacy of Dhankhar’s resignation.

Political Reactions and Opposition Queries

Despite official statements, opposition leaders raised questions about the timing and nature of Dhankhar’s resignation. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh described the situation as mysterious and expressed concern over the sudden absence of a once vocal constitutional authority. Senior advocates and political commentators speculated whether there were deeper political reasons behind the resignation, including disagreements over parliamentary debates and key legislative discussions.

These reactions underline the sensitivity of Dhankhar’s departure, which coincided with the Monsoon Session of Parliament. The session itself faced disruptions and witnessed limited productivity, highlighting political tensions between the ruling party and opposition members.

Life After Office: Low-Profile and Health-Focused

Following his resignation, Jagdeep Dhankhar has chosen a low-profile lifestyle focused on wellness. Reports suggest that he has engaged in yoga and table tennis, prioritizing his health while remaining away from public engagements. Official sources indicate that he has vacated the Vice President Enclave and is relocating to a government bungalow in Lutyens’ Delhi.

Financially, Dhankhar is entitled to a pension as per the Vice President’s Pension Act, 1997, in addition to other benefits including support staff and government accommodations. His estimated net worth, encompassing savings, agricultural revenues, and bank interest, provides him with the means to maintain a comfortable post-office life.

Parliamentary Context and Implications

Dhankhar’s resignation coincided with the opening of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, which has already been marked by intense political debates and disruptions. The session witnessed clashes over legislative priorities and stalled proceedings, highlighting the political tensions in the current environment. Analysts suggest that his departure could influence parliamentary dynamics and the tone of upcoming debates, especially regarding governance and policy implementation.

Upcoming Vice Presidential Election

The sudden vacancy in the vice-presidential post triggered a constitutional requirement for an early election. The 2025 Indian vice-presidential election is scheduled for September 9, 2025. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has nominated C.P. Radhakrishnan as its candidate, while the opposition bloc INDIA has chosen Justice (Retd.) B. Sudarshan Reddy.

The resignation and upcoming election carry significant political weight, as both candidates reflect differing ideologies and support bases. The outcome will influence parliamentary dynamics and may impact the government-opposition balance in the Rajya Sabha, India’s upper house of Parliament.

Conclusion

Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation as Vice President has created a significant political moment in India. While health reasons remain the official explanation, the abrupt nature of his departure has sparked widespread speculation and discussion across party lines. As the nation looks forward to the September vice-presidential election, all eyes are now on how political parties navigate this transition and the implications it may have for parliamentary proceedings and governance in India.

(Sources: NDTV, Hindustan Times, Firstpost)