In a surprising turn of events, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar submitted his resignation late last night, citing health-related concerns. The announcement came through an official letter addressed to President Droupadi Murmu and was simultaneously shared on social media via the Vice President’s official handle.
“To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution,” Mr. Dhankhar wrote. He expressed deep gratitude towards President Murmu for her unwavering support and their positive working relationship.
Shortly after the announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) to extend his well wishes. “Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji has got many opportunities to serve our country in various capacities, including as the Vice President of India. Wishing him good health,” PM Modi posted.
In his resignation letter, Mr. Dhankhar also thanked the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers for their cooperation. “The warmth, trust, and affection I have received from all the Hon’ble Members of Parliament will forever be cherished. I am deeply thankful for the invaluable experiences and insights I have gained in our great democracy,” he added.
The resignation has sparked speculation across the political landscape, especially given Mr. Dhankhar’s earlier comment at Jawaharlal Nehru University, where he had stated that he would “retire at the right time, August 2027, subject to divine intervention.”
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge responded with measured restraint, stating, “Only he knows the reason. Either the government knows or he knows. It is up to the government to accept his resignation or not.” Other Congress leaders referred to the decision as “inexplicable” and “a riddle wrapped in mystery, rolled in an enigma.”
As of now, the central government has not issued any official statement regarding the resignation.
