Rift with government the reason behind resignation: Dhankhar steps down without farewell function or speech

NEW DELHI: There are indications that differences of opinion with the government are behind the unexpected resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The resignation letter was accepted by President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday morning. There are indications that the resignation was due to the events that took place after Monday afternoon. Dhankhar announced his resignation at 9.25 pm through X-account.

Dhankhar was active in the Rajya Sabha on the day the monsoon session began. However, it is learnt that Dhankhar's acceptance of the opposition notice on the impeachment motion of former Delhi High Court judge Yashwant Verma has caused displeasure to the government. This has led to the government missing out on the opportunity to take action against the judge and corruption in the judiciary. It is learnt that Rajya Sabha leader and minister J.P. Nadda and Dhankhar had a long argument over the phone over this.

J.P. Nadda and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju did not attend the Rajya Sabha Business Advisory Meeting held in the evening. There are also indications that there has been a rift in relations with the government recently. The resignation citing health reasons is a continuation of this.

Dhankhar, who was regularly criticised by the opposition for supporting the government excessively while he was the Rajya Sabha Chairman, stepped down without receiving an official farewell function. Dhankhar did not attend the House on Tuesday as his resignation was accepted. Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh took over as per the rules. Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a message of congratulations to Dhankhar after his resignation was accepted.

Nitish to be the next Vice President?

74-year-old Dhankhar had said at an event held 10 days ago that he would complete his term as Vice President and continue till August 2027. His health condition was not getting better after he collapsed during an event held in Delhi last week. The Election Commission will soon announce the election for the post of Vice President. Dhankhar's successor will be announced before September 19. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP President J.P. Nadda and Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha are on the NDA's list of possible candidates.