What Caused Jagdeep Dhankhar's Unexpected Resignation?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation has raised significant political questions.
- Opposition leaders express skepticism about health being the sole reason for his departure.
- Timing coincides with the Monsoon Session, adding to the intrigue.
- Criticism directed towards BJP regarding possible political maneuvering.
- The situation highlights the complex interplay between health and political decisions.
New Delhi, July 22 (NationPress) The unexpected resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, citing health issues, has created a stir in the political landscape of Delhi. Leaders from various parties have voiced their concern for his health while also questioning the backdrop of his decision.
Dhankhar, who has held the position of the 14th Vice President of India since August 2022, officially stepped down on July 21, 2025, coinciding with the opening day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.
This surprising move has not only caught many off guard but has also provided new fodder for the Opposition, who perceive the resignation as carrying political significance.
While health was provided as the formal reason for his resignation, numerous opposition figures remain skeptical.
Congress MP Imran Masood stated, "His resignation raises serious questions. He was active throughout the day, attending all scheduled events, and suddenly resigned in the evening. This doesn't appear to be about health. There's something more to it."
Congress Rajya Sabha MP Akhilesh Prasad Singh described the resignation as shocking and unfortunate for both the Upper House and the political scene in India.
"He seemed perfectly fine when I met him just yesterday. He managed the House competently. I don't know what's happening, but this doesn't seem to add up," Singh remarked.
Independent MP Pappu Yadav directly criticized the BJP, alleging that the party pressured Dhankhar to resign.
"The BJP disregards the Constitution and democratic principles. Dhankhar ji maintained an unbiased approach, which didn't sit well with many in authority," he charged.
Referring to BJP leader J.P. Nadda's remark during the Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge's speech, Yadav added, "That insult to the Chair affected him deeply. This is not about his health at all."
Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav adopted a more reserved position, saying, "He resigned citing health issues, and I have nothing further to add. I can't interpret the underlying reasons."
Senior Congress figure Udit Raj expressed his hopes for Dhankhar's well-being but questioned the timing of his resignation.
"Why now? Why on the opening day of such a pivotal session? The Prime Minister should step in and urge him to reconsider," he told IANS.
Congress MP Sukhdeo Bhagat commended Dhankhar's time in office as commendable, but added, "In politics, nothing is truly unexpected; it’s often meticulously orchestrated. In the BJP, decisions are made by a mere two individuals—it's not a democratic framework."
Jagdeep Dhankhar, a seasoned politician and constitutional expert, was regarded as a fair yet firm presiding officer of the Rajya Sabha. His resignation, coinciding with the commencement of the Monsoon Session, has sparked widespread speculation.