Why Did Jagdeep Dhankhar Resign as Vice President of India?

New Delhi, July 21 (NationPress) Jagdeep Dhankhar, the 14th Vice President of India, announced his resignation on Monday, citing health issues. This marks a historic moment as he becomes the first Vice President to voluntarily resign before the end of their five-year term.

His departure comes with two years remaining in his term.

Dhankhar, who took office in August 2022 following a significant victory in the Vice-Presidential election, submitted his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu on July 21.

In his resignation letter, he referenced Article 67(a) of the Indian Constitution, which outlines the process for a Vice President's resignation.

Experts indicate that Dhankhar's resignation will initiate the constitutional process to elect a new Vice President of India. Given that the Vice President also serves as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, it is crucial that the position is filled promptly, they noted.

Political analysts believe that elections for Dhankhar's successor are likely to take place soon, in accordance with the Constitution, to maintain continuity in the upper house's operations.

Over the past year, Dhankhar faced several health challenges, including multiple hospitalizations, with the most recent one occurring in Nainital. However, the specifics of his medical condition remain undisclosed.

Born on May 18, 1951, in Kithana village, Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, Jagdeep Dhankhar's journey from a farmer's son to one of India's esteemed constitutional figures is noteworthy. He completed his education at Sainik School, Chittorgarh, and earned a B.Sc. followed by an LLB from the University of Rajasthan.

Dhankhar began practicing law in 1979 and became a Senior Advocate at the Rajasthan High Court in 1990. He also practiced at the Supreme Court of India and served as President of the Rajasthan High Court Bar Association.

His political career began in 1989 when he was elected as a Lok Sabha MP from Jhunjhunu representing the Janata Dal. He later served as the Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs in the Chandra Shekhar government from 1990 to 1991 and was an MLA in the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly from 1993 to 1998.

In July 2019, Dhankhar was appointed as the Governor of West Bengal, where he experienced a challenging relationship with the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) government.

On July 16, 2022, he was announced as the NDA's candidate for Vice President, officially filing his nomination on July 18. Backed by the BJP and its allies, Dhankhar won the election held on August 6, 2022, by a record-breaking margin, securing 528 out of 710 votes, while his opponent, Margaret Alva, received only 182 votes.

This victory represents the largest margin in a Vice-Presidential election since 1992, with the Trinamool Congress abstaining from the vote.

As Vice President, Dhankhar also held the role of ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, where he oversaw significant legislative discussions.

As he resigns, Dhankhar's legacy as a constitutional figure, legal expert, and advocate for democratic values will continue to influence conversations regarding the Vice Presidency's role in modern India.

Full text of Vice President Dhankhar’s resignation letter:

Respected Rashtrapati ji,

In order to prioritize my health and adhere to medical guidance, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the constitution.

I sincerely thank Your Excellency - the Hon'ble President of India for her constant support and the exceptional working relationship we enjoyed throughout my tenure.

I extend my gratitude to the Hon'ble Prime Minister and the esteemed Council of Ministers. The Prime Minister's cooperation and support have been invaluable, and I have gained significant knowledge during my time in office.

The warmth, trust, and affection I have experienced from all the Hon'ble Members of Parliament will forever be cherished and embedded in my memory.

I am profoundly grateful for the rich experiences and insights I've garnered as Vice President within our vibrant democracy.

It has been a privilege to witness and participate in India's extraordinary economic progress and unprecedented development during this crucial period. Serving in this transformative chapter of our nation's history has been a true honor.

As I depart from this distinguished office, I take pride in Bharat's global ascendance and remarkable accomplishments, holding steadfast confidence in her bright future.