Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 22: The unexpected resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has jolted the political landscape in the national capital, sparking widespread speculation and concern across party lines. Officially attributed to health reasons, the timing and manner of his departure have left many unconvinced.

Dhankhar, who had been serving as the 14th Vice President since August 2022, stepped down on July 21 — coinciding with the very first day of Parliament's Monsoon Session. The abrupt announcement has caught both allies and opponents off guard.

While the government maintains that health issues prompted the decision, several members of the Opposition have raised eyebrows.

“This doesn't feel like a health issue. He was perfectly active throughout the day, participating in events as usual. The evening resignation came out of nowhere,” said Congress MP Imran Masood, suggesting a deeper political undertone.

Echoing similar concerns, senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Akhilesh Prasad Singh called the resignation “shocking and unfortunate” for both the Upper House and Indian democracy. “He seemed fine just yesterday. He was sharp and presiding over proceedings efficiently. Something’s not adding up,” he remarked.

Independent MP from Purnia, Pappu Yadav, was more direct in his criticism, pointing fingers at the ruling BJP. “He followed the Constitution, remained impartial — and that’s what irked those in power. This isn’t about his health. This is about pressure,” he alleged.

Yadav also cited a controversial remark made by BJP President J.P. Nadda during a recent speech by Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, where Nadda reportedly said: "Only what I say will go on record." According to Yadav, that comment was a grave insult to the dignity of the Chair — and it had deeply affected Dhankhar.

However, some leaders adopted a more guarded tone. Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav said he would not speculate beyond the stated reason: “He resigned citing health. I’ll leave it at that.”

Senior Congress figure Udit Raj questioned the timing, stating, “Why now — right at the start of an important session? The Prime Minister should ask him to reconsider.” He also extended his wishes for Dhankhar’s recovery.

Congress MP Sukhdeo Bhagat, while praising Dhankhar’s conduct in office, implied that internal party dynamics may have played a role. “In the BJP, only two people decide everything. This isn’t a democratic structure. Resignations like this are never spontaneous — they're scripted,” he commented.

Dhankhar, a former lawyer and veteran politician known for his command over parliamentary procedure, was often lauded for maintaining order and impartiality in the Rajya Sabha.

Yet his resignation, coming at a politically sensitive juncture, has left a vacuum — and raised more questions than answers.