Jagdeep Dhankhar Announces Immediate Resignation

Jagdeep Dhankhar, the Vice President of India, has announced his resignation effective immediately. In a statement released on Monday night, Mr. Dhankhar cited health concerns and the need to follow medical advice as the primary reasons for his decision. His resignation is in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Indian Constitution.

Historical Context of Vice Presidential Resignations

This resignation marks a significant moment in Indian political history, as it is not common for vice presidents to step down before completing their term. However, there have been precedents; both VV Giri and R Venkataraman resigned from the vice presidency before their terms ended, later ascending to the presidency.

Dhankhar’s Tenure and Contributions

Mr. Dhankhar, who is 74 years old, took office in August 2022. During his tenure, he has been recognized for his contributions to various national initiatives and his commitment to public service. His decision to resign underscores the importance he places on personal health and well-being.

Implications for Indian Politics

The resignation of a sitting vice president can have significant implications for the political landscape in India. It opens up discussions about potential successors and the future direction of the vice presidency. The government will now need to address this vacancy promptly to ensure continuity in leadership.

Accessing the Resignation Letter

For those interested in reading Mr. Dhankhar’s resignation letter in full, it has been made available by Mansi Jagani on Scribd. This document provides further insight into his decision-making process and personal reflections on his time in office.