In a surprising move, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar submitted his resignation late Monday night, citing medical reasons. His resignation came just two years into his five-year term, which began in August 2022 and was set to end in 2027. Dhankhar’s decision has created a rare mid-term vacancy in India’s second-highest constitutional office. He now joins a short list of vice presidents who resigned before completing their term, following the footsteps of V.V. Giri and R. Venkataraman, both of whom stepped down to contest presidential elections.
The Indian Constitution does not clearly define who should take over when the vice president resigns mid-term. However, since the vice president also serves as the ex-officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha, those responsibilities automatically shift to the deputy chairman. Harivansh Narayan Singh, the current deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha, will carry out the vice president’s parliamentary functions until a new vice president is elected. This ensures that the upper house continues to function smoothly despite the unexpected resignation.
The Election Commission of India will oversee the election of the new vice president. The process involves an electoral college made up of members from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, including nominated members. Voting takes place through a secret ballot using a proportional representation system with a single transferable vote. Although the Constitution does not fix a strict deadline for holding the election, the commission is expected to act promptly to fill the vacancy.
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Once elected, the new VP will serve a complete five-year term starting from the day they assume office. This differs from the prime minister or chief ministers. Who only serve only until the current Lok Sabha or state assembly dissolves. The new vice president’s full term offers continuity and stability to the office. Despite the disruption caused by Dhankhar’s early departure.
With political parties caught off guard, all eyes are now on the Election Commission and the likely candidates who may step forward. The unexpected resignation has set the stage for an important political development that could shape the course of parliamentary leadership in the months to come
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