Vice President of India: Recent Resignation and Succession Scenario
Resignation of the Present Vice President
Jagdeep Dhankhar, the Vice President of India, resigned from his position on July 21, 2025, citing health concerns and the need to follow medical advice.
His resignation was immediate and officially communicated to President Droupadi Murmu, in compliance with Article 67(a) of the Indian Constitution.
Dhankhar had assumed office in August 2022 and was originally expected to serve until 2027.
What Happens Next: Succession Process
According to the Constitution, when the Vice President's post becomes vacant, an election must be held "as soon as possible" to fill the vacancy. There is no fixed deadline, but the Election Commission will announce the schedule for electing a new Vice President.
In the interim, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha—currently Harivansh Narayan Singh—presides over the Rajya Sabha, but there is no provision for an Acting Vice President.
Likely Successor and Speculation
The ruling BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) holds a majority in the electoral college (members of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) and will select its candidate in the coming days.
No official announcement has been made yet regarding the future Vice President of India. Possible candidates include:
Harivansh Narayan Singh (Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman) is being considered due to his experience and rapport with the government.
Speculation also surrounds Shashi Tharoor, given political and social media discussions, but this is currently unconfirmed and remains in the realm of speculation.
The NDA may opt for a senior governor, an organizational leader, or a Union minister with a non-controversial profile.
Official Next Steps
The Election Commission will soon initiate the election process for the new Vice President as per the established constitutional norms.
Until a new Vice President is elected, the Rajya Sabha will be chaired by the Deputy Chairman.
Summary Table
Currently, the office of the Vice President is vacant, and the process to determine the future Vice President is underway, with leading candidates and speculation subject to confirmation by the Election Commission and the ruling alliance.
Jaydeep dhankhar what is his health
Jagdeep Dhankhar's Health Status
Jagdeep Dhankhar, who resigned as Vice President of India on July 21, 2025, cited health concerns and the need to follow medical advice as the primary reason for stepping down.
His resignation letter stated, "To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately".
Recent Health Events
In March 2025, Dhankhar was hospitalized at AIIMS Delhi for "cardiac-related ailments." He experienced uneasiness and chest pain and was admitted to the Critical Care Unit, later being discharged after four days following recovery.
Weeks after his hospital stay, he fainted during an event in Uttarakhand in June 2025 and received medical attention, with doctors reportedly advising further rest.
Specific details about his illness have not been officially disclosed; only that ongoing health issues, particularly heart-related, are widely acknowledged in the media.
Public Statements
Dhankhar refrained from sharing medical specifics but emphasized his decision was strictly on the advice of doctors and to focus on his health.
Until his resignation, he remained active in public life and parliamentary duties, making his sudden resignation unexpected to many.
Summary Table
No additional specifics about his current condition have been officially released; the decision to step down is a direct result of medical guidance to prioritize treatment and recovery.
