Dhankhar submits his resignation to President, Pg1

Key Highlights:

• Mr. Jagdeep Dhankhar, India's 14th Vice-President, resigned citing medical advice, under Article 67(a) of the Constitution.
• His resignation letter was addressed to President Droupadi Murmu and shared publicly.
• Dhankhar had suffered a cardiac event in March 2025, though he had resumed public engagements.
• He had presided over the Rajya Sabha on the first day of the session, including during a motion to remove a High Court judge.
• His resignation came unexpectedly after chairing the Business Advisory Committee the same day.
• As of now, no confirmation has been given on whether the President has accepted his resignation.

Detailed Insights:

• The resignation has triggered constitutional and political attention, as it occurred midway through his 5-year term.
• As per Article 67(a) of the Constitution, the Vice-President can resign by addressing a letter to the President.
• Dhankhar was elected Vice-President in August 2022 and had served previously as Governor of West Bengal.
• The absence of succession clarity raises immediate constitutional queries regarding the functioning of the Rajya Sabha.
• Vice-President also acts as the ex officio Chairperson of Rajya Sabha; his resignation could affect the legislative functioning during the ongoing Monsoon Session.
• The Constitution is silent on an acting Vice-President; however, in practice, the Deputy Chairperson may preside until elections are held.
• His exit creates a vacuum in Rajya Sabha leadership, especially during a politically sensitive session.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Article 67(a) of the Constitution: The Vice-President may resign by writing addressed to the President.
• Vice-President's Role: Ex-officio Chairperson of Rajya Sabha, second-highest constitutional office in India.