New Delhi: In a significant development, Jagdeep Dhankhar has resigned from the office of the Vice President of India, effective immediately. The resignation, tendered in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution, cites the need to prioritise health care based on medical advice. The letter of resignation, dated July 21, 2025, was addressed to the Hon’ble President of India.
Background of the Resignation
Jagdeep Dhankhar, who assumed office as the 14th Vice President of India on August 11, 2022, has stepped down from his constitutional post. By virtue of his position, he also served as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The resignation was communicated through a formal letter addressed to the President, bringing his tenure to an end.
Grounds for Resignation
The letter explicitly states the reason for the decision. Mr. Dhankhar wrote, “To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the constitution.”
Article 67(a) of the Constitution of India stipulates the process for the resignation of the Vice President. It reads: “A Vice-President may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office.” Mr. Dhankhar’s letter directly invokes this provision, making the resignation constitutionally compliant and effective upon its submission to the President.
Constitutional Framework
While this is not a court matter, the action is governed by the constitutional framework. The resignation is a unilateral act as per Article 67(a) and becomes effective once the letter, written and signed by the Vice President, is delivered to the President. No acceptance is formally required for the resignation to take effect. Article 68(2) of the Constitution mandates that an election to fill a vacancy in the office of Vice-President occurring by reason of death, resignation or removal, or otherwise shall be held as soon as possible after the occurrence of the vacancy.
Content of the Letter and Expressions of Gratitude
In his resignation letter, Mr. Dhankhar expressed profound gratitude to several dignitaries with whom he worked during his tenure.
He extended his “deepest gratitude to Your Excellency – the Hon’ble President of India for her unwavering support and the soothing wonderful working relationship we maintained during my tenure.”
He also conveyed his thanks to the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers, stating, “I express my deep gratitude to the Hon’ble Prime Minister and the esteemed Council of Ministers. Prime Minister’s cooperation and support have been invaluable, and I have learned much during my time in office.”
Acknowledging the Members of Parliament, he wrote, “The warmth, trust, and affection I have received from all the Hon’ble Members of Parliament would ever be cherished at and embedded in my memory.”
Reflecting on his time in office, Mr. Dhankhar remarked, “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 honor.”
He concluded his letter with a hopeful note, expressing that he leaves the office “filled with pride in Bharat’s global rise and phenomenal achievements and hold unwavering confidence in her brilliant future.”
