Jagdeep Dhankhar Becomes First VP to Resign During Ongoing Parliament Session

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has resigned from his post, creating history as the first Vice President of India to step down during an ongoing session of Parliament. The resignation, which he attributed to health reasons, has triggered nationwide political debate and public curiosity.

In a letter addressed to President Droupadi Murmu, Dhankhar wrote, "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."

He also expressed gratitude to the President, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the Council of Ministers for their support during his tenure. Dhankhar is not expected to attend the remainder of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

Historic First: Resignation During Active Session

What makes this development unique is that Dhankhar is the first Vice President in Indian history to resign while Parliament is in session. The move has raised questions and speculation about its timing, especially given the heightened political tensions between the ruling and opposition parties during the current session.

Only the Third Vice President to Resign Before Term Ends

While Dhankhar is the first to resign mid-session, he is only the third Vice President to step down before completing a full term. The previous two were:

1. V.V. Giri (Vice President: 1967-1969)

Giri resigned in July 1969 to contest the presidential election after the death of President Zakir Husain. He served as Acting President and later became the fourth President of India with the backing of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

2. R. Venkataraman (Vice President: 1984-1987)

Venkataraman resigned in July 1987 after being nominated and elected as President of India, succeeding Giani Zail Singh. He served a full five-year term as the eighth President.

Both Giri and Venkataraman transitioned from Vice President to President, setting important political precedents.

As per Article 67(a) of the Constitution, the resignation of the Vice President must be submitted in writing to the President. With the post now vacant, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha will temporarily preside over Upper House proceedings.

The Election Commission is expected to initiate the Vice Presidential election soon, in coordination with the government and Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Dhankhar's resignation comes at a politically sensitive moment, with several key legislative bills pending and a contentious atmosphere in Parliament. Known for his assertive style as Rajya Sabha Chairman, he often drew criticism from opposition benches.

With the Vice Presidency vacant, the ruling NDA government is likely to begin internal discussions on its nominee for the second-highest constitutional office in the country. The upcoming election could play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape ahead of the 2026 general elections.