In an unexpected development, Jagdeep Dhankhar today resigned from his position as the Vice President of India, citing health reasons. The announcement, conveyed in a formal letter to President Droupadi Murmu, marks an abrupt end to his tenure, which began on August 11, 2022.
In his resignation, submitted in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution of India, Dhankhar explicitly stated his decision was “to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice.” The specific nature of his health concerns was not immediately disclosed, but the emphasis on “medical advice” suggests a significant personal health situation necessitating his stepping down from the demanding constitutional office.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigns from his post "to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice." pic.twitter.com/IoHiN7VGAR
— ANI (@ANI) July 21, 2025
Dhankhar’s resignation creates a notable vacancy in one of the country’s highest offices, which also carries the responsibility of being the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India’s Parliament. His departure comes at a crucial time for the nation, and the process for electing a successor will now be initiated as per constitutional provisions. Article 68(2) of the Constitution mandates that an election to fill such a vacancy shall be held “as soon as possible.”
In his resignation letter, Dhankhar conveyed a sense of profound satisfaction and privilege regarding his time in office. He remarked on the “remarkable economic progress and unprecedented exponential development” that India has experienced during this period, expressing pride in having witnessed and “partaken” in this transformative era. “Serving in this transformative era of our nation’s history has been a true honour,” he stated, reflecting on his contributions.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to Your Excellency – the Hon’ble President of India for her unwavering support and the soothing wonderful working relationship we maintained during my tenure,” it added.
The Vice President also expressed his deep gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the the Council of Ministers.
“Prime Minister’s cooperation and support have been invaluable, and I have learned much during my time in office,” he said.
Dhankhar said that the warmth, trust, and affection he has received from all the Members of Parliament would ever be cherished at and embedded in his memory.
“I am deeply thankful for the invaluable experiences and insights I have gained as Vice President in our great democracy. It has been a privilege and satisfaction to witness and partake in India’s remarkable economic progress and unprecedented exponential development during this significant period. Serving in this transformative era of our nation’s history has been a true honor,” he said.
“As I leave this esteemed office, I am filled with pride in Bharat’s global rise and phenomenal achievements and hold unwavering confidence in her brilliant future,” he added.
The resignation came on the first day of the monsoon session of Parliament.
Throughout his tenure, Vice President Dhankhar was a visible figure, often engaging with various stakeholders and presiding over the Rajya Sabha. His sudden departure is likely to prompt discussions and speculation within political circles regarding the immediate future of the Vice Presidential office and the impending election.
While the resignation is a unilateral act under Article 67(a), and no formal acceptance is constitutionally required for it to take effect, the President’s office will now oversee the necessary procedures for the transition.
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