Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm wishes to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar after his abrupt resignation on Monday, citing health reasons. The 74-year-old’s decision came shortly after presiding over the first day of the Monsoon Session in the Rajya Sabha, marking a sudden and unexpected end to his tenure.
“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 on social media, acknowledging the veteran leader’s decades-long contribution to public life.
Resignation Letter Cites Health Concerns
In a formal letter to President Droupadi Murmu, Dhankhar wrote, “To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution.”
He also expressed gratitude for the working relationship he shared with President Murmu, calling it “soothing” and filled with “unwavering support.”
Though the government has yet to issue an official statement, sources indicate the move may not have taken them entirely by surprise.
From Physics to Parliament
Born on May 18, 1951, in Kithana, Rajasthan, Jagdeep Dhankhar pursued degrees in physics and law at the University of Rajasthan. He launched his legal career in 1979 and was designated a Senior Advocate the same year he served as Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs (1990–91).
His political journey began with the Janata Dal, winning a Lok Sabha seat from Jhunjhunu in 1989. Later, in 1991, he joined the Indian National Congress and was elected to the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly from Kishangarh in 1993.
Shift to BJP and Rise to Governorship
In 2003, Dhankhar joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and played a key role in its legal affairs wing. His national stature grew when he was appointed Governor of West Bengal in July 2019 — a tenure marked by sharp political confrontations with the state government. He served in that capacity until mid-July 2022.
Vice Presidential Tenure
Shortly after his gubernatorial stint, Dhankhar was named the NDA’s candidate for Vice President. On August 6, 2022, he won with an overwhelming 74.4% of valid votes, the largest margin in recent vice-presidential elections.
He officially took office on August 11, 2022, becoming the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, where he led key parliamentary reforms.