Turbulent Times: India Gears Up for Swift Vice President Election Following Dhankhar’s Sudden Resignation

New Delhi is abuzz with political speculation following the unexpected resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The move, announced on Monday, July 21, 2025, has sent ripples through the nation’s political landscape, initiating a critical process for a swift Vice President Election. As per constitutional mandates, the vacancy must be filled “as soon as possible,” a directive that sets the stage for a period of intense political activity and strategic maneuvering.

The Sudden Departure and the Call for a New Vice President Election

Jagdeep Dhankhar, who assumed office in August 2022, tendered his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu, citing “health reasons” and a need to “prioritise health care.” His tenure, though abbreviated, saw him serve as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, a role now temporarily assumed by Deputy Chairperson Harivansh Narayan Singh. The immediate focus, however, shifts to the impending Vice President Election, a process that is constitutionally bound to commence without undue delay.

• Constitutional Imperative: Article 68(2) of the Constitution of India explicitly states that an election to fill a vacancy in the office of the Vice President, arising from resignation, death, or removal, must be held “as soon as possible.” There is no specific timeframe mentioned, but the emphasis is on prompt action.
• Full Term for Successor: Importantly, the individual elected in the upcoming Vice President Election will not merely complete Dhankhar’s unexpired term. Instead, they will serve a full five-year term from the date they assume office, ensuring continuity and stability in the nation’s second-highest constitutional position.
• Rajya Sabha Leadership: Until a new Vice President is elected, the Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha will preside over the proceedings, maintaining the decorum and functionality of the Upper House during this transitional phase.

Understanding the Vice President Election Process

The election of the Vice President is a meticulously outlined process, distinct from other electoral procedures in the country. The upcoming Vice President Election will adhere to these established norms:

• Electoral College: The Vice President is elected by an Electoral College comprising members of both Houses of Parliament – the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). This includes nominated members of the Rajya Sabha.
• Proportional Representation: The election is conducted in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote. This system ensures that the elected candidate secures a broad mandate.
• Secret Ballot: The voting in such an election is conducted by secret ballot, preserving the confidentiality of individual choices.
• Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for the Vice President Election, a candidate must be a citizen of India, have completed 35 years of age, and be qualified for election as a member of the Rajya Sabha. They must also not hold any office of profit under the Government of India or any state government.
• NDA’s Strategic Advantage: With the current numerical strength in both Houses of Parliament, the BJP-led NDA appears to hold a comfortable majority in the electoral college, positioning them favorably to secure a victory in the forthcoming Vice President Election.

A New Address in Lutyens’ Delhi for Former Vice President Dhankhar

In a related development, sources indicate that Jagdeep Dhankhar will be allotted a government bungalow in the prestigious Lutyens’ Delhi area following his vacation of the Vice President’s Enclave. This is a standard protocol for former Vice Presidents, ensuring they continue to receive appropriate accommodation and security. The allocation of a bungalow in Lutyens’ Delhi is a symbolic recognition of the high office held and the continued security requirements of a former constitutional dignitary.

Looking Ahead: The Path to a Stable Future

The nation now watches keenly as the Election Commission prepares to announce the schedule for the Vice President Election. This democratic exercise will not only fill a crucial constitutional vacancy but also signify a seamless transition of power, a hallmark of India’s robust democratic framework. The swiftness of the process underscores the commitment to maintaining the integrity and functionality of the country’s highest offices.