Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on Monday, quitting office on the advice of physicians to give top priority to his health. His resignation took place while the Monsoon Session of Parliament started with intense political developments on July 21.
In a formal letter to President Droupadi Murmu, Dhankhar penned, "Respected Rashtrapati ji, to prioritize health care and follow medical advice, I hereby resign as Vice President of India, immediate effect, as per Article 67(a) of the constitution."
Looking back on his tenure, Dhankhar said he felt profound gratitude to have served during what he referred to as a turning point in India's growth. "I am deeply grateful for the enriching experiences and learnings I have had as Vice President in our great democracy. It has been a pleasure and pride to witness and be a part of India's impressive economic growth and unprecedented exponential growth through these historic times. Being a part of this revolutionary period of our country's history has been a privilege," he wrote in his letter.
He ended on a note of hope and pride of nation: "As I leave this worthy office, I am full of pride in Bharat's international rise and phenomenal success and have unshakeable faith in her splendid future. With the profoundest respect and gratitude, Joglup Sharkha."
Dhankhar, who had taken office as the 14th Vice President of India in August 2022, had been the Governor of West Bengal and had held senior advocate and parliamentarian posts. His surprise resignation is made at a critical moment in politics and is an unusual mid-term break from the nation's second-highest constitutional position.
