A seasoned leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party is set to step into the Vice‑Presidential role following the abrupt resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar, sources within the party have confirmed. BJP insiders have dismissed speculation about considering alliance partners, such as Janata Dal chief Nitish Kumar, indicating the decision will prioritise ideological alignment with the party’s core principles.
Dhankhar, who resigned on 21 July, cited health concerns and medical advice, submitting his letter under Article 67 of the constitution. He expressed deep appreciation for President Droupadi Murmu and thanked Parliament members for their cooperation during his tenure that began in August 2022. The resignation was accompanied by an unexpected late-night visit to the presidential residence, arriving at around 9 pm and leaving shortly after, which triggered considerable political and public speculation.
Several opposition figures have voiced scepticism about the health rationale, citing Dhankhar’s active daytime involvement and suggesting political pressure may have played a role. Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee went further, alleging the Vice-President faced threats of impeachment unless he stepped down, and floated Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s name as a likely successor. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Congress leader Ashok Gehlot described the resignation as an echo of pressure on constitutional officeholders.
In the interim, Parliament’s upper chamber continues under the stewardship of Deputy Chairman Harivansh Singh, who has taken charge as acting presiding officer in Dhankhar’s absence. Harivansh, a Janata Dal stalwart appointed Deputy Chairman in 2020, is regarded as an effective interim custodian amid the ongoing monsoon session.
The Election Commission is expected to announce the timeline for the Vice‑Presidential poll within the next 48 to 72 hours, with the process likely concluded by the end of August. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance commands a clear majority in the electoral college, virtually guaranteeing the BJP nominee’s victory.
Multiple individuals are reportedly under consideration for the BJP nomination. Profiles mentioned include Harivansh Singh, though he is a JD member, Nitish Kumar, and Ram Nath Thakur. Despite their credentials and national stature, party sources maintain that the decision will centre on a candidate “closely associated with the party’s ideology”.
Speculation continues to swirl regarding the reasons behind Dhankhar’s departure, with theories pointing to a clash over a motion to remove a judge following a cash seizure at his residence. Opposition-backed judicial action reportedly upset the Centre’s strategy, potentially contributing to the parting of ways. Additionally, tension within BJP circles is said to have intensified after a terse telephone exchange between Dhankhar and a senior minister concerning the judge’s impeachment motion.
The BJP has begun a defensive media campaign, planning to highlight the opposition’s past criticisms of Dhankhar during his tenure, framing them as reasons for his exit and insulating the party from allegations of coercion.
With every procedural step set in motion, including the parliamentary nomination phase, the process now pivots on the BJP’s strategic selection and formal announcement. The new Vice President is likely to be a figure with deep roots in the party’s ideological framework, reaffirming the BJP’s intent to consolidate ideological coherence in constitutional office.
Dhankhar Exit Reveals Rift Over Varma Impeachment 