Becomes third VP in Indian history to step down before completing term; new election to be held within six months
New Delhi: In a significant development in Indian politics, Jagdeep Dhankhar, the 74-year-old Vice President of India, has resigned from his constitutional post citing medical reasons. His resignation, submitted to President Droupadi Murmu, came into immediate effect following the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.
Dhankhar’s decision makes him only the third Vice President in Indian history to resign before completing his five-year term. Apart from serving as the Vice President, Dhankhar also held the post of ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (the Upper House of Parliament), making his resignation a significant procedural event in the working of the Indian legislature.
As per Article 67 of the Constitution of India, a Vice President may step down by tendering a written resignation to the President. Following his exit, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha will temporarily oversee the proceedings of the Upper House.
The Election Commission of India will now conduct an election to fill the vacancy. As per the Vice-President Election Rules, 1997, the new Vice President must be elected within six months. The electoral college, which includes both elected and nominated members of Parliament, will participate in the vote. Interestingly, the newly elected Vice President will enjoy a full five-year term, irrespective of when the election is held.
Dhankhar’s resignation, while respectful and health-driven, adds to a rare list of Vice-Presidential resignations in India’s constitutional history. His tenure will be remembered for its procedural discipline and calm presence during Parliament sessions.
