“BJP’s Dhankhar Gamble Backfires: Resignation Sparks Political Storm, Judicial Rift, and Opposition Surge”

Vice President’s abrupt exit exposes internal BJP tensions, Rajya Sabha missteps, and rising opposition influence amid looming elections.

Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation as Vice President of India on July 21, 2025, citing health reasons, has triggered a wave of speculation and political intrigue. While the official explanation was medical, multiple sources suggest deeper, more complex motivations behind his sudden exit.

Official Reason: Health Concerns

• Dhankhar stated in his resignation letter that he was stepping down “to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice,” invoking Article 67(a) of the Constitution.
• However, just days earlier, he had publicly declared his intention to serve until August 2027, making the timing of his resignation puzzling.

Political Undercurrents and Speculated Real Reasons

1. Justice Varma Impeachment Motion

• Dhankhar accepted an opposition-sponsored motion to impeach Justice Yashwant Varma, reportedly without consulting the government.
• This move embarrassed the BJP, which had its own strategy in the Lok Sabha, and was blindsided by Dhankhar’s announcement.

2. Closeness to Opposition Leaders

• Dhankhar met with Arvind Kejriwal and Sanjay Singh just a day before resigning.
• Rumors suggest he expressed support for a stronger opposition voice in the Rajya Sabha, which may have alarmed the ruling party.

3. Internal BJP Discontent

• Allegations surfaced that Dhankhar was rude to ministers, gave too much floor time to the opposition, and made personal demands like wanting a Mercedes and his portrait in government offices.
• BJP leaders reportedly began collecting signatures for an impeachment motion against him before he resigned.

4. Strategic Exit Ahead of Bihar Elections

• One theory posits that Dhankhar’s resignation was orchestrated to make way for Nitish Kumar as Vice President, aligning with BJP’s electoral strategy in Bihar.

5. Operation Sindoor Rumors Debunked

• Claims that Dhankhar resigned due to the failure of Operation Sindoor were fact-checked and found to be false. His resignation was not linked to any military operation.

Opposition Reaction

• Congress leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge, expressed skepticism about the health narrative and suggested the resignation stemmed from internal tensions between Dhankhar and PM Modi.

Bottom Line

Dhankhar’s resignation appears to be the result of a convergence of political missteps, strained relationships with the ruling party, and his perceived drift toward opposition sympathies. While the official line remains “health reasons,” the real story seems to be one of political fallout and strategic repositioning.

Rajya Sabha Dynamics: Power Vacuum and Realignment

1. Interim Leadership

• Harivansh Narayan Singh, the Deputy Chairman, is now presiding over the Rajya Sabha.
• While constitutionally sound, this interim setup lacks the political heft and authority of a full-time Vice President.

2. Procedural Uncertainty

• Dhankhar’s resignation came during the Monsoon Session, disrupting legislative momentum.
• His assertive handling of impeachment motions against Justices Yadav and Varma created friction with the government.

3. Opposition Gains Leverage

• Dhankhar’s perceived drift toward opposition voices—especially his meetings with leaders like Arvind Kejriwal—has emboldened the INDIA bloc.
• With the Deputy Chairman now in charge, opposition parties may find more room to maneuver in the Upper House.

Electoral Implications: Strategic Calculations Ahead

1. Vice Presidential Election on September 9

• The Election Commission has announced the polling date, with nominations due by August 21.
• Both NDA and INDIA blocs are preparing for a high-stakes contest that could signal broader electoral momentum.

2. Bihar Factor

• Speculation is rife that Dhankhar’s exit may pave the way for Nitish Kumar as a VP candidate, aligning with BJP’s strategy to consolidate votes in Bihar.

3. RSS–BJP Tensions

• Dhankhar’s resignation may intensify internal power struggles within the Sangh Parivar, especially as the BJP prepares for its presidential leadership transition.

Political Fallout: Realpolitik Over Principle

• Dhankhar’s resignation is seen by many as a consequence of political misalignment, not just a health issue.
• His acceptance of opposition motions and criticism of judicial conduct were viewed as breaches of loyalty by the ruling alliance.