Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on Monday, July 21, due to health issues and the advice of doctors. His resignation occurred just moments after he presided over the inaugural Monsoon session of the Rajya Sabha. The 73-year-old handed in his resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu and appreciated being given the chance to serve the country in one of its most senior constitutional positions.
In his resignation letter, Dhankhar expressed gratitude to President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the Union Cabinet, saying it was a matter of “great pride” to have been part of India’s journey as a global and economic powerhouse. His resignation is a major happening in Indian politics, especially as Parliament approaches a pivotal legislative phase.
Who is Jagdeep Dhankhar
Born on May 18, 1951, in the rural village of Kithana in Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu district, Dhankhar’s ascension has been characterised by resilience, learning, and service to the people. An Honours degree holder in Physics from Maharaja’s College, Jaipur, Dhankhar graduated in LLB from the University of Rajasthan in 1979. In the same year, he was admitted as an advocate with the Bar Council of Rajasthan.
He constructed a strong legal career, practicing mostly at the Supreme Court and in High Courts throughout India. He specialised in steel cases, coal cases, mining cases, and international commercial arbitration cases, among others. The Rajasthan High Court appointed him as a Senior Advocate in March 1990.
Prior to entering national politics, Dhankhar was also the Governor of West Bengal (2019–2022), guiding one of India’s most politically volatile states through a particularly roiling period.Â
From law to constitution
Dhankhar’s career spanned the court and corridors of power. He was the most senior appointed Senior Advocate of Rajasthan prior to his Governorship, and ultimately rose to the Vice President’s seat in 2022. His time witnessed him chairing the Rajya Sabha with an iron fist but a constitutional mindset, particularly during periods of political tension.
He is married to Dr Sudesh Dhankhar and has a daughter Kamna.
What happens when the Vice President resigns?
According to Article 68(2) of the Constitution of India, a bye-election for the vacant position of the Vice President should be conducted as early as possible after the resignation. The newly elected Vice President shall serve for the complete five-year term, irrespective of the existing term of the retiring VP. “An election to fill a vacancy in the office of Vice-President. shall be held as soon as possible,” says Article 68(2).
During such absence, the duties of Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha are carried out by the Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha or such other member as the President may select.
