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Citing health concerns, India's Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar unexpectedly resigned on Monday night, the first day of the monsoon session of parliament, a move that has prompted widespread speculation. Dhankhar, who also served as chairman of the upper house, had been in office since August 2022, with his term due to expire in 2027. Many opposition leaders have expressed their surprise at the sudden announcement, with one MP saying there was more to the story "than meets the eye".
On Monday, Dhankhar presided over a Rajya Sabha - the upper house - session and swore in new members. He also received an impeachment notice against high court judge Yashwant Varma, signed by over 50 MPs, following the discovery of cash at the judge's home earlier this year. Justice Varma has denied any wrongdoing by him or his family.
Dhankhar's official schedule had listed a visit to the western city of Jaipur on Wednesday in his capacity as vice president. But on Monday evening, he submitted his resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu, saying he wanted "to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice".
"It has been a privilege and satisfaction to witness and partake in India's remarkable economic progress and unprecedented exponential development during this significant period. Serving in this transformative era of our nation's history has been a true honour," Dhankar said in the letter.
Dhankhar underwent angioplasty in Delhi in March but quickly resumed his duties and remained active in parliament.
With the vice president's seat now vacant, his responsibilities are likely to be handled by the deputy chairperson of the Rajya Sabha or another member designated by the president.
The abrupt move sent ripples through political circles, with some remarking that they had spoken to Dhankhar just hours before his resignation.
Manish Tewari, an MP of India's main opposition Congress party, called the move "totally unexpected".
"No doubt Mr Dhankhar has to give topmost priority to his health," he said.
"But, clearly there is far more to his totally unexpected resignation than meets the eye."
Dhankar, a lawyer by profession, first entered politics as an MP in 1989.
