New Delhi: Jagdeep Dhankhar’s sudden resignation from the post of vice president, citing health concerns, has sparked fervent speculation about who will succeed him as India’s second-highest constitutional officer.
Dhankhar, 74, submitted his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu on July 21, 2025, the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. In his letter, he cited health issues for stepping down with immediate effect. President Murmu accepted the resignation on Tuesday, triggering preparations for an election within six months in tune with Article 68(2) of the Constitution.
The vacancy leaves Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh to preside over the Upper House temporarily. Singh, a Janata Dal (United) leader from Bihar, is among the frontrunners for the Vice Presidency, given his experience and neutrality in managing Rajya Sabha proceedings. His name has gained traction in political circles as a safe and seasoned choice.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, a key NDA ally, has emerged as a prominent contender. BJP MLA Haribhushan Thakur Bachaul publicly endorsed Kumar, calling his potential appointment a “matter of pride for Bihar.” With Bihar’s assembly elections looming in late 2025, Kumar’s 20-year tenure as Chief Minister and his appeal among EBCs and non-Yadav OBCs make him a strategic pick. Analysts suggest the BJP-led NDA might use the “Nitish card” to counter opposition attacks from the Congress-led Mahagathbandhan and address voter fatigue over Kumar’s age and governance style.
Surprisingly, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor’s name has also surfaced in discussions. Tharoor, known for his eloquence and international stature, has grown closer to the BJP in recent months. His inclusion as a potential candidate hints at a possible political realignment, though no official confirmation exists.
Dhankhar’s resignation, with two years left in his term, has fueled debate. Opposition leaders like Jairam Ramesh labeled it “inexplicable,” with some speculating that his acceptance of an opposition-backed impeachment motion against a judge may have contributed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Dhankhar’s service, wishing him well on X.
The NDA, which secured Dhankhar’s 2022 victory with 528 votes against Margaret Alva’s 182, is expected to announce its candidate soon. The election, involving MPs from both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, will test the coalition’s ability to balance regional representation and political strategy.
As names like Harivansh, Nitish Kumar and Tharoor circulate, the choice will signal the NDA’s priorities—whether consolidating Bihar’s electoral base or embracing a broader, unexpected alliance.
Comments are closed.