India's Vice President and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Jagdeep Dhankhar, surprised everyone on Monday by resigning from his post. Elected in 2022, Dhankhar's term was expected to conclude in 2027, making him the third Vice President to leave the position prematurely. In a heartfelt letter to President Droupadi Murmu, he cited health reasons for his resignation.
Dhankhar's Resignation Sparks Political Buzz
The resignation of Vice President Dhankhar has sent shockwaves through political circles, leaving both government and opposition stunned. The Monsoon Session of Parliament had just commenced on Monday, with Dhankhar presiding over the usual house operations. None anticipated his impending resignation.
During the Rajya Sabha session, around 11 AM, Chairman Dhankhar administered the oath of office to newly nominated members. The session proceeded without interruption until lunch. Afterward, Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal introduced the Landing Bill, sparking a discussion that Dhankhar chaired at 12:30 PM.
Opposition Demands Discussion on Operation Sindh
Around 2 PM, opposition members in the Rajya Sabha demanded a discussion on Operation Sindh, causing an uproar. The opposition also sought to raise the Bihar SIR issue in the house, leading Congress members to walk out, leaving the Rajya Sabha to operate without their presence.
At approximately 4 PM, Chairman Dhankhar informed the house about receiving a notice for the removal of Justice Yashwant Varma, signed by over 50 members, more than required to initiate the process of removing a High Court judge. He explained that the Presiding Officer of the house has the authority to accept or reject such proposals.
Information on Impeachment Notice Provided
He detailed that if both houses receive the same proposal, it becomes the house's property. A three-member committee including the Chief Justice, a High Court Chief Justice, and an appointed member would be established to evaluate. Based on their report, the Speaker or Chairman can decide the proposal's future. Dhankhar acknowledged the notice and was to decide further on Tuesday.
Read About Dhankhar's Early 2027 Retirement Announcement
Meanwhile, discussions about Operation Sindh created a buzz in the house, with Rajya Sabha leader JP Nadda stating, 'Kharge Ji initiated the operation Sindh discussion, against the rules. We will discuss this.' He clarified to the Congress President's interruption that only their statements would be recorded, not Kharge's remarks.
Conducted Another BAC Meeting
After the house adjourned at 4:30 PM, Dhankhar chaired another BAC meeting, attended by Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs L. Murugan. However, leaders Nadda and Kiren Rijiju were absent, to Dhankhar's visible displeasure.
Following Dhankhar's resignation, Nadda clarified his absence, stating it was due to essential parliamentary work, previously communicated to the Vice President's office. However, opposition links this meeting and the impeachment proposal against Justice Varma to Dhankhar's resignation.
Met Congress Members
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh remarked on Dhankhar's dissatisfaction due to Nadda and Rijiju's absence. According to Ramesh, Dhankhar, known for adhering to rules and procedures, felt his role wasn't respected. He mentioned meeting Dhankhar alongside Pramod Tiwari and Akhilesh Prasad Singh at 5 PM, observing normalcy as Dhankhar confirmed a BAC meeting the following morning. Ramesh later called him in the evening, finding Dhankhar with his family and promising a conversation the next day.
Submitted Resignation to President
Around 9 PM, news of Dhankhar's resignation surfaced from the Vice President's official handle. In an emotional letter to the President, Dhankhar stated he would step down immediately due to health concerns, feeling honored and respected by fellow members.
