Context:

The unexpected resignation of India's Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, citing health concerns, has generated significant political speculation. Despite having resumed duties after angioplasty in March, Dhankhar's resignation on the first day of the monsoon session surprised many, especially given his tenure was to last until 2027. Opposition figures suspect ulterior motives behind the resignation, noting it occurred without prior discussion or consultation. Dhankhar's decision came after presiding over a Rajya Sabha session and receiving an impeachment notice against a high court judge, raising questions about possible connections. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has not yet commented on the resignation, while Dhankhar's duties are expected to be assumed by the deputy chairperson of the Rajya Sabha or another designated member.

Dive Deeper:

• Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned unexpectedly as India's Vice-President, a role he assumed in August 2022 and was supposed to hold until 2027, citing health concerns as the reason for his departure.

• His resignation coincided with the first day of the monsoon session, where he presided over a Rajya Sabha session and received an impeachment notice against high court judge Yashwant Varma, who denied any wrongdoing.

• Dhankhar's abrupt resignation has led to widespread speculation, with opposition leaders questioning the timing and suggesting there might be more to the story than the official explanation of health issues.

• Anand Dubey from the Shiv Sena and Congress MPs Manish Tewari and Jairam Ramesh expressed surprise and skepticism, pointing out the lack of prior consultation and the unexpected nature of the resignation.

• Dhankhar, a lawyer and former governor of West Bengal, joined the BJP in 2003 and had a history of political engagement, making his sudden departure even more surprising to observers.

• His official schedule included a visit to Jaipur, which was canceled following his resignation, and his responsibilities are expected to be taken over by the deputy chairperson of the Rajya Sabha or another appointed member.

• The ruling BJP, which nominated Dhankhar as Vice-President, has remained silent on the issue, further fueling speculation about the reasons behind his resignation.