Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns Citing Health Reasons: A Look at His Journey from Lawyer to High Office

New Delhi, July 21, 2025 – In a surprising turn of events, Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, has officially resigned from his post, citing health-related concerns as the primary reason. The resignation, which comes with two years still remaining in his tenure, has stirred notable reactions across the political spectrum.

Health Takes Priority, Says Dhankhar in Emotional Letter

In a letter addressed to President Droupadi Murmu, Jagdeep Dhankhar stated,
"Prioritizing my health and following the advice of medical professionals, I am resigning from the post of Vice President of India with immediate effect, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution."

He also described working with President Murmu as a "pleasant experience" and extended his heartfelt gratitude for her consistent cooperation during his term. Dhankhar also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Council of Ministers for their unwavering support.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigns from his post "to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice." pic.twitter.com/IoHiN7VGAR

— ANI (@ANI) July 21, 2025

A Career Spanning Law and Politics

Born on May 18, 1951, in the village of Kithana, Jhunjhunu district, Rajasthan, Jagdeep Dhankhar carved an illustrious career in both law and politics. He pursued his education at the University of Rajasthan, completing a bachelor’s degree in Physics, followed by a degree in Law (LL.B.).

He initially rose to prominence as a lawyer before venturing into politics. In 1989, Dhankhar was elected as a Member of Parliament from Jhunjhunu on a Janata Dal ticket. Just a year later, in 1990, he was appointed as the Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs in the Central Government. Between 1993 and 1998, he served as a Member of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, representing the Kishangarh constituency.

Governor to Vice President: Key Milestones

Dhankhar's political stature further grew when he was appointed as the Governor of West Bengal in 2019. During his tenure, he often found himself at the center of debates and decisions involving the state government, playing an active role in constitutional affairs. His assertive stance on various issues garnered attention nationwide.

In 2022, he was elected as the 14th Vice President of India, where he also took on the role of Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. Known for his firm yet balanced conduct in the Upper House, Dhankhar earned both admiration and criticism for his straightforward approach.

Unexpected Exit Raises Speculation

Although Dhankhar has made it clear that health reasons are behind his sudden decision, the unexpected nature of his resignation has led to widespread speculation in political circles. With two years still left in his tenure, the timing of his departure has sparked discussions about the possible implications for the Rajya Sabha and the constitutional apparatus.

As per protocol, the President of India will now begin the process of selecting the next Vice President. Until a successor is elected, the duties of the Vice President may be delegated as per constitutional norms.

A Statesman’s Exit, a Nation’s Reflection

Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation marks the end of a remarkable journey from a small-town lawyer to holding one of the highest constitutional offices in the country. His tenure witnessed critical moments in Indian parliamentary history, and his resignation underscores the human aspect behind public service — where even the most dedicated leaders sometimes must step back for personal well-being.

As the nation bids farewell to his vice-presidential role, all eyes will now be on the next developments in India’s political and constitutional landscape.