What Impact Did Jagdeep Dhankhar's Attendance Have on the Vice-President's Oath Ceremony?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jagdeep Dhankhar's first public appearance post-resignation.
- The oath ceremony of C.P. Radhakrishnan as 15th Vice President.
- Controversy over Dhankhar's resignation and its implications.
- The political landscape influenced by new leadership.
- Highlighting the role of the Vice President in governance.
New Delhi, Sep 12 (NationPress) Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan has officially assumed the role of the 15th Vice President of India during a ceremonial event at Rashtrapati Bhawan in the capital. The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and various other Union Ministers and political leaders.
However, what drew significant attention was the attendance of former Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, marking his first public appearance since his unexpected resignation from office in July 2025.
Dhankhar, who served as the 14th Vice-President, resigned on health grounds, but this abrupt exit ignited a controversy between the government and the opposition, who questioned the legitimacy of his stated reasons and suggested he was ‘ousted’ by the ruling party.
After stepping down, Jagdeep Dhankhar refrained from public engagements or media interactions, which some interpreted as a deliberate decision.
The oath of office was administered to Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan by President Droupadi Murmu, in the company of senior officials, Union Ministers, and various dignitaries.
Radhakrishnan, endorsed by the NDA, won the election for Vice-President by securing 452 votes, while his opposition contender B Sudershan Reddy received 300 votes during the competitive elections held on September 9.
Radhakrishnan has previously served as a two-time BJP MP from Coimbatore and has also held the position of BJP Tamil Nadu chief. His political journey spans decades, starting with the Jana Sangh before evolving into the BJP.
In a noteworthy gesture, Jagdeep Dhankhar congratulated Vice President Radhakrishnan following his significant victory.
In a heartfelt letter, Dhankhar expressed, "Your rise to this esteemed position reflects the trust and faith of our nation's representatives."
He also stated that under Radhakrishnan's leadership, the office would undoubtedly gain "greater respect and prestige."
Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation, effective from July 21, due to health concerns, paved the way for new Vice-Presidential elections.