Dhankhar Resignation: What Happens Now?

In a move that stunned the nation, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar stepped down on July 21, 2025, shortly after opening the Monsoon Session in the Rajya Sabha. The 74-year-old leader cited health concerns in his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu. His departure follows Article 67(a) of the Constitution, which outlines the Vice President’s resignation procedure.

Just ten days before resigning, Dhankhar had publicly affirmed his intent to serve until August 2027. He even hinted that only divine intervention would determine his retirement. The unexpected turnaround has fueled speculation about deeper reasons behind his exit.

Dhankhar’s resignation midway through his tenure has sparked intense political chatter across party lines. The Congress has hinted at undisclosed motives, citing current parliamentary unrest. Meanwhile, the NDA is urgently considering succession plans as the Rajya Sabha faces a leadership gap.

With no constitutional provision for an acting Vice President, the post will remain vacant until fresh elections are held under Article 62. Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh has taken over Rajya Sabha duties in the interim. His role ensures procedural continuity during the critical Monsoon Session.

Article 68(2) mandates that a new Vice President be elected promptly, though it sets no specific deadline. This contrasts with the six-month limit for presidential vacancies under Article 62. The timing now hinges on the Election Commission’s logistical and political considerations.

The Election Commission will set the poll schedule under the 1952 Act but has not issued any dates yet. The Vice President will be chosen by an electoral college of MPs from both houses of Parliament through a secret, single transferable vote. The Returning Officer role will rotate between the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Secretaries-General.

Under Rule 24 of the 1974 Election Rules, a Vice Presidential candidate must secure over half the valid votes—roughly 395 of 788—to win. If no one meets this quota in the first round, the candidate with the fewest first-preference votes is eliminated. Their votes are then transferred based on second preferences, and the process continues until a majority-backed candidate emerges in this secret ballot.

Article 66(3) of the Constitution and the 1952 Act require a VP candidate to be an Indian citizen, at least 35 years old, and eligible for election to the Rajya Sabha. They must also be a registered voter in any parliamentary constituency. As per Article 66(4), candidates cannot hold an office of profit under the government, except for roles like President, Governor, or Minister—ensuring both qualification and neutrality.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat recently reaffirmed the informal 75-year retirement norm, a long-held tradition within the Sangh. Though not applicable on constitutional roles, this guideline has influenced BJP leadership transitions in the past. Dhankhar’s resignation at 74 has stirred speculation about whether the norm subtly shaped his decision.