Shah Urges Public Not to Speculate
In the wake of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s abrupt resignation, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has appealed to the public not to indulge in speculation. Speaking to ANI, Shah clarified that Dhankhar stepped down solely for health-related reasons.
“Dhankhar ji was very successfully executing his constitutional duties. His resignation is due to personal health problems. People should not stretch it into political conspiracies,” Shah emphasised.
Opposition Smells Political Motive
The opposition, however, remains unconvinced. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi described Dhankhar’s sudden silence as “troubling times”, while senior advocate and Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal demanded a full disclosure of facts. Sibal even suggested the possibility of filing a habeas corpus petition if Dhankhar was being held against his will.
Shah Dismisses Opposition Allegations
Addressing these claims, Shah said, “Looks like your way of truth and lies is to depend only on what the opposition is saying. We ought not to be making much of this.” He praised Dhankhar’s role as Rajya Sabha Chairman, noting how he steered through difficult parliamentary sessions while upholding constitutional principles.
Dhankhar Becomes Third VP to Resign Mid-Term
According to Article 67(a) of the Constitution, Dhankhar’s resignation became effective immediately, making him only the third Vice President in India’s history to voluntarily step down before completing his tenure. His sudden departure has left the nation preparing for an unexpected election.
New Vice Presidential Poll on September 9
The Election Commission has scheduled the Vice Presidential election for September 9, 2025. The NDA has nominated Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, while the opposition has fielded former Supreme Court judge B. Sudarshan Reddy. The contest is expected to be closely watched, with both camps vying to shape the narrative around Dhankhar’s exit.