PM Modi Reacts as Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns as Vice President: ‘Got Many Opportunities to Serve the Country’

In a political development that caught many by surprise, Jagdeep Dhankhar, the 14th Vice President of India, officially submitted his resignation, ending a brief but eventful tenure in one of the country’s highest constitutional offices. As the news broke across newsrooms and political circles, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to respond—his remarks calm yet emotionally charged.

“He got many opportunities to serve the country,” PM Modi said, offering a reflective and gracious note on Dhankhar’s exit. The statement was both a tribute to a seasoned politician and a subtle cue to a larger political repositioning that may now unfold.

This article begins a comprehensive, humanised, and deeply reported journey through Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation, the context around it, the response from India’s top leadership, and the broader implications for Indian politics. Through multiple parts, we will explore the institutional role of the Vice President, the dynamics within Parliament, Dhankhar’s political evolution, and what this signals for Modi’s leadership and India’s constitutional balance.

The Man at the Center: Jagdeep Dhankhar’s Journey

Born in Rajasthan, Jagdeep Dhankhar has been many things—lawyer, parliamentarian, Governor, and constitutional head of India’s upper house. But perhaps his most defining quality has been his ability to adapt. From his early days as a Supreme Court lawyer to his term as the Governor of West Bengal, Dhankhar’s career has followed the contours of both constitutional duty and political loyalty.

His tenure as Vice President was marked by assertiveness and occasional controversy, particularly in his role as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. Known for his sharp tongue, knowledge of constitutional law, and a clear allegiance to the ruling party’s policies, Dhankhar was both admired and critiqued. While the NDA hailed him as a defender of parliamentary discipline, opposition leaders often accused him of partisanship.

The Sudden Goodbye: Why Now?

While no official reason has been cited, Dhankhar’s resignation comes at a politically sensitive juncture—less than a year into his term. It also precedes critical events in India’s domestic political calendar, including the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, major policy rollouts, and speculation over a possible Cabinet reshuffle.

Sources close to the Vice President’s Office suggest that personal reasons may have played a part, but insiders in Lutyens’ Delhi believe that the decision was strategic. Dhankhar, reportedly, was uncomfortable with certain developments in the upper house, including procedural bypasses and rising partisanship.

One senior Rajya Sabha MP, speaking anonymously, noted: “He always wanted to maintain constitutional sanctity. Maybe he felt the space for neutrality was shrinking.”

PM Modi’s Statement: Gracious, Strategic, and Telling

Prime Minister Modi’s response was swift—and telling. In a brief yet carefully worded tribute, he remarked that Dhankhar had received “many opportunities to serve the country” and had done so with commitment. The tone was calm, mature, and politically astute. There were no hints of conflict, no suggestions of disapproval—only recognition of public service and a quiet nod to Dhankhar’s exit.

Political analysts say Modi’s language in such moments is deliberate. “He acknowledges service and signals closure, but also leaves the door open,” says political commentator Dr. Swati Deshpande. “Modi’s use of the word ‘opportunities’ suggests that Dhankhar may still have a role to play—perhaps in a legal, advisory, or diplomatic capacity.”

This method of tribute—neither too emotional nor overtly political—is part of Modi’s evolving style of governance. He absorbs high-profile exits without letting them spiral into crises.

Reading Between the Lines: What This Means for Parliament

The Vice President of India, by constitutional mandate, is also the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. His resignation, therefore, creates not just a ceremonial vacuum but a functional one. With Parliament already witnessing rising tension between the ruling coalition and the opposition, Dhankhar’s departure may exacerbate that friction.

During his term, he often found himself caught between the constitutional responsibility of neutrality and the practical demands of managing an increasingly combative House. His firm stance during multiple disruptions, walkouts, and censure debates was appreciated by the Treasury benches, but often led to walkouts by the Opposition.

In one notable session, Dhankhar had rebuked a group of MPs for violating decorum and staged a symbolic walkout from the Chair—a move unprecedented in recent Rajya Sabha history.

His exit raises fresh questions:

Who will succeed him?
Will the new Vice President be more conciliatory or more combative?
What does this mean for the passage of key bills in upcoming sessions?

These are not just procedural questions but deeply political ones, especially in the run-up to major elections and national-level policymaking.

A Moment of Constitutional Transition

Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation isn’t just the exit of a man from office—it is a constitutional moment. It reminds the nation of the fragility of democratic institutions, the importance of political balance, and the quiet tension that simmers beneath high offices.

It also tests how India’s ruling elite handles power shifts, internal dissent, and institutional transitions. In that sense, PM Modi’s reaction is not just about Dhankhar—but also about reaffirming the continuity of governance amid political change.

The resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar from the Vice Presidency not only triggered political curiosity but also revived a broader conversation: What exactly is the Vice President of India supposed to do? Is the role largely ceremonial, or does it hold tangible influence? How has the office evolved, and how did Dhankhar’s tenure measure up to that constitutional vision?

This part examines the history, structure, and functions of the Vice Presidency, situating Dhankhar’s departure in the context of both constitutional tradition and contemporary political practice.

A Brief History of the Vice Presidency in India

Established under Article 63 of the Indian Constitution, the office of the Vice President was created as the second-highest constitutional position in the Republic, subordinate only to the President. The first Vice President of India, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, set a high intellectual benchmark—his scholarly presence lending prestige to a post still finding its institutional feet.

But the Vice President’s most crucial function is not simply ceremonial. He or she is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the Upper House of Parliament. In that capacity, the VP presides over legislative debates, ensures order, and upholds parliamentary decorum—a responsibility that makes the role both strategic and sensitive.

The VP also acts as President in case of the latter’s death, resignation, or removal, until a new President is elected. Although this contingency role is rare, it positions the VP as a constitutional safeguard during times of crisis.

Key Functions of the Vice President

Chairperson of Rajya Sabha
The Vice President’s principal duty is to preside over sessions of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). Unlike the Lok Sabha Speaker, the Rajya Sabha Chairperson is not an elected member of the House. This creates an important institutional distinction—the Chair must manage debates without direct political involvement, demanding neutrality, patience, and firmness.
Maintaining Parliamentary Discipline
In an increasingly polarized political environment, the VP’s role as custodian of order becomes vital. The Chair can suspend members, disallow motions, and restrict unruly conduct—a power that has grown contentious in recent years.
Symbol of Constitutional Continuity
As the second-highest constitutional office, the Vice President is often called upon to represent India domestically and internationally, especially when the President is unavailable. From state functions to diplomatic ceremonies, the VP plays a visible, symbolic role in projecting national dignity.
Acting President in Emergencies
In cases where the President is unable to fulfill duties due to death, resignation, or removal, the Vice President assumes the post temporarily—ensuring continuity of executive authority.

How Jagdeep Dhankhar Shaped the Role

Jagdeep Dhankhar’s background as a senior advocate and Governor of West Bengal brought a unique edge to his vice-presidential term. Unlike some of his predecessors who treated the office as apolitical or academic, Dhankhar brought active engagement and robust commentary to the Chair.

Some of his defining moments include:

Clashes with Opposition benches over decorum, parliamentary privilege, and rule interpretation.
Public defenses of central legislation, such as the farm bills, during his Raj Bhavan days—stances that lingered during his Vice Presidency.
Strong views on judicial overreach, including public remarks on the “basic structure doctrine”—which triggered debate on separation of powers.

To some, this made him a partisan figure in a role that ideally demands neutrality. To others, Dhankhar was a principled voice against chaos, determined to restore order in a House that has seen frequent disruptions.

Political scientist Dr. Nivedita Menon observed, “Dhankhar’s Vice Presidency was less about consensus and more about control. Whether that was good or bad depends on where you stand politically.”

Vice Presidents Who Left Their Mark

Over the decades, the Vice Presidency has seen a wide range of personalities:

Dr. Radhakrishnan (1952–1962): Set the intellectual tone and elevated the post with scholarly gravitas.
M. Hamid Ansari (2007–2017): Known for his diplomatic finesse and restrained, neutral handling of House matters.
Venkaiah Naidu (2017–2022): Infused the office with an oratorical flourish and actively engaged with procedural issues.
Jagdeep Dhankhar (2022–2024): Assertive, vocal, and unapologetically firm—reshaped the office with confrontation and constitutional debate.

Each Vice President brought their own temperament to the Chair, reflecting the evolving nature of the office—from intellectual restraint to strategic intervention.

Why Dhankhar’s Resignation Matters

Given that the Vice President is not directly accountable to the people or Parliament once elected, resignations from this post are rare. Dhankhar’s decision thus gains weight as a symbolic departure—a personal expression of discontent, or perhaps a tactical repositioning for a larger political role.

In constitutional terms, his exit temporarily weakens parliamentary management during a time when the Rajya Sabha is crucial for passing key bills, including electoral reforms, digital regulation, and defence procurement laws.

The vacuum of authority left by his resignation will now test the resilience of the institution and the capacity of Parliament to function amid uncertainty.

Reading the Constitution Between the Lines

While the Constitution provides a clear mandate for the Vice President’s responsibilities, its spirit depends on how individuals interpret the role. Dhankhar interpreted it assertively—often walking the fine line between constitutional propriety and political intervention.

His tenure has revived old questions:

Should the Vice President be politically neutral at all times?
Can the Chair of the Rajya Sabha express public opinions?
Where does parliamentary discipline end and political censorship begin?

These questions will define not only the legacy of Dhankhar but also the expectations from future occupants of India’s second-highest office.

The resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar was not merely a bureaucratic formality—it was a moment that sent political shockwaves across India’s power corridors. The act itself was brief, even courteous. The implications, however, are layered, complex, and perhaps deeply calculated.

In this part, we explore the timing, circumstances, and underlying strategic considerations behind Dhankhar’s exit. Was it a decision born out of principle? Or does it signal a strategic repositioning within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or the larger political ecosystem?

A Sudden Yet ‘Expected’ Exit

On the surface, Dhankhar’s resignation seemed abrupt. There were no clear public indicators of dissatisfaction. He presided over Rajya Sabha sessions with characteristic firmness, made speeches invoking constitutional decorum, and continued participating in ceremonial duties until the very end.

But within political circles, murmurs of internal realignment had already begun.

Multiple BJP sources, speaking anonymously to national dailies, revealed that “talks of Dhankhar moving into a more active political role” had been circulating for several months. Some even speculated that he may be considered for a key ministerial berth or appointed as a governor with greater executive reach—indicating that the resignation may not be a retreat, but a tactical advance.

The 2025 Political Climate: A Background

To fully understand the significance of the resignation, one must consider the political atmosphere in mid-2025:

General elections are less than a year away. While the BJP holds power at the Centre, opposition alliances like INDIA bloc and regional fronts are gaining momentum.
The Parliament has become increasingly combative, especially in the Rajya Sabha, where the BJP does not enjoy a full majority.
Key legislation—including personal data protection, electoral reforms, and infrastructure projects—has faced consistent pushback in the Upper House.

In such a climate, controlling the narrative and ensuring loyalty within constitutional offices becomes more important than ever. Dhankhar, despite being a strong voice, had increasingly come under fire for his outspoken remarks, especially those perceived as being critical of the judiciary.

Was Dhankhar Becoming a Liability?

While Dhankhar has been hailed by many BJP supporters as a bulwark against legislative disorder, his tenure also brought tensions with the judiciary to the fore. His repeated criticism of the basic structure doctrine, comments on judicial activism, and suggestions that Parliament’s supremacy should be “unquestioned” stirred considerable backlash.

In particular, his remarks questioning the Supreme Court’s limits in legislative matters caused discomfort within both legal circles and parts of the bureaucracy.

Several analysts believe that this confrontational tone—though consistent with BJP’s narrative of institutional rebalancing—may have outlived its usefulness. A Rajya Sabha chairperson locked in open ideological battles with judges complicates the Centre’s efforts to maintain political equilibrium ahead of the 2026 elections.

Thus, the strategic value of Dhankhar’s resignation could lie in the opportunity to appoint someone with a more calibrated public posture while offering Dhankhar a politically significant role better suited to his assertive style.

Was This Part of a Bigger Plan?

Political insiders point to two possible strategic paths:

1. Cabinet Induction Post-Resignation

Dhankhar’s legal acumen, political experience, and loyalty to the party make him a suitable candidate for a ministerial post in key areas like Law and Justice, Parliamentary Affairs, or Home. His resignation could thus be a calculated step toward joining the executive, especially at a time when the BJP is looking to inject fresh energy and legal muscle into its core team.

2. Key Gubernatorial Assignment

Others speculate he could be sent as Governor to a politically sensitive state, such as Punjab, Tamil Nadu, or Kerala, where his assertiveness and legal clarity could help balance the Centre–State dynamic.

Both possibilities imply that Dhankhar’s resignation is not a sign of retirement but a relocation on the chessboard of national power.

PM Modi’s Statement: Tone of Respect, Hint of Transition

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s response to Dhankhar’s resignation was notably warm:

“Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji has got many opportunities to serve our country. His resignation marks the end of an important chapter, but surely not the end of his contributions to public life.”

This carefully worded message suggests:

Appreciation for Dhankhar’s service,
Recognition of his future utility, and
A subtle hint that new responsibilities may await.

It is rare for PM Modi to offer such personal endorsements unless there is a larger transition plan in place.

Opposition’s Reaction: Relief, But Caution

From the other side, the opposition camp welcomed the resignation with a mix of relief and suspicion.

Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh tweeted:

“Hope the Chair in the Upper House will now be treated as an institution, not as a battlefield.”

However, other members of the opposition questioned the timing:

Was the resignation coordinated with BJP’s internal leadership changes?
Could Dhankhar be used as a campaign face in upcoming state elections, particularly in his home state of Rajasthan?

Such questions indicate that Dhankhar’s departure is not seen merely as personal, but part of a larger electoral and institutional choreography.

Timing Is Everything: Why Now?

Why did Jagdeep Dhankhar choose this moment—mid-2025—to resign?

Several theories are doing the rounds:

Pre-election clean-up: The BJP wants a more “measured” VP to avoid controversies heading into the 2026 elections.
Legal battles ahead: With multiple critical bills awaiting legal challenge, removing Dhankhar from the Vice President’s post helps soften the institutional narrative.
Political expansion: Dhankhar may be headed for an assignment that aligns more directly with political mobilization or governance.

Regardless of the motive, the timing is precise, the optics are controlled, and the signal is loud: the ruling party is reorganizing its leadership structure.

Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation as Vice President has ignited both curiosity and speculation—not only about the reasons for his departure but also about what lies ahead for him and who might fill the constitutional vacuum left behind. The resignation, while respectful and statesmanlike in tone, has strategic implications for governance, party politics, and the BJP-led Centre’s institutional approach.

This part explores the unfolding succession drama, possible political redeployment of Dhankhar, and the qualities that are likely to define his successor. In the backdrop is the question India’s political class is now openly asking: was this just a resignation—or a highly calibrated transition?

I. Who Will Succeed Jagdeep Dhankhar as Vice President of India?

The Vice President of India is not only the ceremonial second-highest constitutional authority but also the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, a role critical in ensuring parliamentary order, legislative prioritization, and political negotiation.

Thus, Dhankhar’s successor will have to wear multiple hats: constitutional guardian, parliamentary referee, and (unofficially) a political stabilizer.

Key Qualities Being Considered:

Moderate Public Profile – Unlike Dhankhar’s sharp and often confrontational tone, the next VP might be someone with a quieter, consensus-building personality.
Legal/Administrative Background – A deep understanding of the Constitution and legislative procedure will remain essential.
Pan-India Appeal – With general elections looming, the BJP will be looking for someone who can signal inclusiveness, perhaps from a minority or underrepresented region or caste.

Likely Names in the Fray:

Arif Mohammad Khan – Currently Kerala Governor, and a seasoned parliamentarian known for his balanced views. His elevation could signal the BJP’s inclusive intent.
Thaawarchand Gehlot – Former Union Minister and Karnataka Governor. As a senior Dalit leader, his nomination could help BJP cement its outreach in both South India and Dalit communities.
Anandiben Patel – Former Gujarat CM and current Governor of Uttar Pradesh. A loyalist with vast administrative experience.
Dr. Kiran Bedi – Though an outlier, her credentials as a reformist IPS officer and her past gubernatorial role in Puducherry could make her a bold, reform-driven choice.
Suresh Prabhu – A former Union Minister respected across party lines. Known for his technocratic acumen, Prabhu could offer parliamentary neutrality with strong legislative experience.

While the final decision lies with the NDA coalition—and ultimately with the Prime Minister—the selection will likely be shaped by both symbolism and strategy.

II. What’s Next for Jagdeep Dhankhar? A Calculated Transition or Political Resurrection?

The prevailing view among Delhi’s power-watchers is that Dhankhar’s career is far from over. In fact, his exit from the Vice President’s office could be the start of a more politically active phase.

1. Return to Electoral Politics: Rajasthan Calling?

Dhankhar hails from Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, and has deep social roots in the Jat community—a key vote bank in western India. With Rajasthan politics entering a turbulent phase and Assembly elections on the horizon in 2026, Dhankhar could:

Be projected as the CM face, or
Be used as a Jat community mobilizer to weaken the Congress and regional outfits.

His administrative clarity, legal acumen, and assertive personality could help BJP consolidate its hold in the state.

2. Central Cabinet Role: Law, Justice, or Parliamentary Affairs?

Given Dhankhar’s legal background—he is a senior advocate and former Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs—he could be inducted into the Union Cabinet in a high-impact portfolio.

Possible roles:

Minister for Law and Justice – Ideal for a former VP who repeatedly sparred with the judiciary.
Minister for Parliamentary Affairs – Would allow him to apply his Rajya Sabha experience from a more partisan angle.

Such a move would allow the BJP to capitalize on his constitutional understanding while giving him operational space beyond the confines of a neutral constitutional office.

3. Special Envoy or Constitutional Commission Head

Another possibility is Dhankhar being appointed as the head of a new commission—perhaps related to electoral reform, federalism, or judicial accountability. This would keep him in public discourse while leveraging his experience without overt political deployment.

III. Reactions from the Legal and Bureaucratic Fraternity

Dhankhar’s resignation hasn’t just stirred political debate—it has also caused nervousness within judicial and legal circles. Many jurists saw him as a consistent critic of “judicial overreach,” and his departure may offer some breathing space to the higher judiciary.

However, his supporters argue that “checks and balances” between judiciary and legislature had to be debated—and Dhankhar merely fulfilled his constitutional role.

Retired SC judge Justice Ruma Pal told Bar & Bench:

“It is rare for a Vice President to be so forthright. Whether you agree with him or not, his views forced the system to introspect.”

Senior bureaucrat Ramesh Abhyankar (Retd.) remarked:

“Dhankhar’s tenure showed that the Vice President’s office need not be ornamental. It can influence governance profoundly.”

IV. Opposition’s Calculations After the Exit

With Dhankhar gone, the Opposition hopes to regain some parliamentary space, especially in the Upper House. Many opposition leaders had complained about his partisan tone and accused him of tilting debates in BJP’s favour.

The Congress, Left, and DMK are likely to press for a consensus Vice President—although given the NDA’s majority in the electoral college, this is more of a moral position than a practical demand.

Opposition strategist Yashwant Deshmukh noted:

“Dhankhar was a political asset for BJP but a parliamentary irritant for the Opposition. His replacement will determine how inclusive the rest of this government’s term will be.”

V. Symbolism vs Strategy: The Message in Dhankhar’s Resignation

The resignation of a Vice President is rare in Indian politics—especially when it is not tied to health or age. Dhankhar’s exit must be viewed within the broader realignment within the BJP, which is now preparing for its fourth consecutive term bid in 2026.

What does this signal?

A possible softening of institutional rhetoric.
Greater focus on electoral realignment, especially in Rajasthan and western UP.
A controlled shift in BJP’s parliamentary leadership tone.

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