The Trajectory of Jagdeep Dhankhar: A Biography, Controversies, and the Vice-Presidential Succession
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| The Trajectory of Jagdeep Dhankhar: A Biography, Controversies, and the Vice-Presidential Succession |
Executive Summary
Jagdeep Dhankhar's journey represents a remarkable ascent from a humble village background to the second-highest constitutional office in India. His career is characterized by a diverse professional life, spanning a distinguished legal practice and a multi-party political trajectory. As Governor of West Bengal, his tenure was marked by frequent and high-profile confrontations, which significantly raised his national profile. Upon assuming the Vice-Presidency, he adopted an assertive and often controversial style as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, advocating strongly for parliamentary supremacy and judicial accountability. His recent, unexpected resignation, citing health grounds, has triggered widespread speculation and initiated the process for selecting India's next Vice President, a decision poised to carry significant political weight given the prevailing parliamentary dynamics.
1. Introduction: The Journey of Jagdeep Dhankhar
Jagdeep Dhankhar stands as a prominent figure in contemporary Indian politics, whose career reflects a unique blend of legal acumen, political pragmatism, and constitutional assertiveness. From his origins in rural Rajasthan to occupying the esteemed office of Vice President, his trajectory has been both conventional in its progression through various political roles and unconventional in the distinctive manner in which he discharged his constitutional duties. This report offers a comprehensive biographical account of Dhankhar, delving into his foundational qualifications, the specific contexts and implications of his resignations from public office, his involvement in significant controversies, and the evolution of his political career. A particular emphasis will be placed on analyzing his key arguments and policy stances, culminating in an overview of the constitutional process for Vice-Presidential succession and the potential candidates currently under consideration.
2. Early Life, Education, and Legal Foundations
Jagdeep Dhankhar's foundational years laid the groundwork for his distinguished career, characterized by a steadfast commitment to education and a rapid ascent in the legal profession.
Early Life and Family Background
Born on May 18, 1951, in Kithana, a village nestled in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, India, Dhankhar emerged from a Hindu Rajasthani Jat family. His parents, Gokal Chand and Kesari Devi, instilled in him a strong sense of purpose. Growing up in a rural environment, Dhankhar's early life experiences cultivated an early dedication to learning, a trait that would profoundly influence his future path as both a legal expert and a political leader.1
Academic Pursuits and Qualifications
Dhankhar's educational journey began at the Government Primary School in Kithana, followed by the Government Middle School in Ghardhana, often necessitating daily walks of several kilometers. His academic prowess was evident when, in 1962, he secured admission to the Sainik School, Chittorgarh, on a full merit scholarship. There, he successfully cleared the Indian School Certificate Examination, which was recognized by Cambridge University. This English-medium residential institution, renowned for its rigorous curriculum and military-style discipline, played a formative role in developing his leadership skills and preparing him for future roles in public service.2
For his higher education, Dhankhar enrolled at the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur. He earned a Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Physics from Maharaja's College, Jaipur, and subsequently pursued a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree, completing it in the academic year 1978–1979.2 This structured and determined academic path provided a consistent foundation throughout his career, from legal practice to constitutional roles.5
Establishment and Prominence in Legal Career
In 1979, Dhankhar formally commenced his professional journey by enrolling as an advocate with the Bar Council of Rajasthan.2 Despite being a first-generation professional in the legal field, he rapidly established himself as a formidable presence within the legal community. His practice primarily focused on complex areas such as constitutional law, steel, coal, mining, and international commercial arbitration cases.2
His rapid ascent was underscored by his designation as a Senior Advocate by the Rajasthan High Court in 1990, a prestigious title he held as the senior-most designated Senior Advocate in the state until his appointment as Governor of West Bengal in July 2019.2 Demonstrating early leadership, he became the youngest person ever elected as the President of the Rajasthan High Court Bar Association, Jaipur, in 1987, and subsequently became a Member of the Rajasthan Bar Council in 1988.3 His legal practice extended to the Supreme Court and various High Courts across India.2 A notable instance of his legal prowess includes his representation of the state of Haryana in the significant Sutlej River water dispute before the Supreme Court of India in 2016.3
Dhankhar's rural upbringing and early commitment to education, including walking kilometers to school and securing a merit scholarship for Sainik School, fostered an exceptional drive and intellectual capability. His journey from humble beginnings to a Senior Advocate, despite being a "first-generation professional," suggests that these formative experiences instilled a profound understanding of common challenges and a robust work ethic. This foundation in rigorous legal practice, particularly in constitutional law, would later profoundly influence his assertive positions on judicial and parliamentary matters during his gubernatorial and vice-presidential tenures, where he frequently invoked constitutional principles.
Furthermore, his extensive legal background, explicitly noted as playing a "key role in his transition into public office" 5, provided a robust intellectual framework for his subsequent political career. His deep knowledge of constitutional law and litigation experience equipped him with the analytical skills and constitutional understanding essential for navigating the complex political and governance roles he would undertake. This legal grounding became a defining characteristic of his approach to legislative-executive balance and judicial scrutiny, which were hallmarks of his later constitutional offices.
3. Political Trajectory: A Multi-Party Evolution
Jagdeep Dhankhar's political career is marked by a notable evolution across different political parties, reflecting a pragmatic and adaptable approach to public service.
Entry into Politics and Early Roles (Janata Dal, Indian National Congress)
Dhankhar's entry into the political arena began with the Janata Dal. He successfully contested and was elected to the 9th Lok Sabha (1989–1991) from the Jhunjhunu Parliamentary constituency in Rajasthan.2 During this period, in 1990, he served as the Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs in the Chandra Shekhar government.2
Following this, Dhankhar transitioned to the Indian National Congress, under whose banner he contested the 1991 general elections from Ajmer, though he was unsuccessful in securing a win.2 His political engagement continued at the state level, as he was elected to the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly from the Kishangarh constituency, serving from 1993 to 1998 in the 10th Legislative Assembly. During this tenure, he actively contributed to various key legislative committees.2 He made another attempt at the Lok Sabha elections in 1998 from Jhunjhunu but finished in third place.3
Transition to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Subsequent Roles
After a period of relative quiet in active electoral politics, Dhankhar made a significant political shift, joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2003.3 Initially, his contributions within the BJP focused on legal and organizational matters. He was a member of the party's campaign committee for the 2008 assembly elections.3 By 2016, his standing within the party had grown, leading him to head the BJP's law and legal affairs department in Rajasthan.2
Dhankhar's political journey, spanning the Janata Dal, Indian National Congress, and Bharatiya Janata Party, indicates a pragmatic evolution rather than rigid ideological adherence. This multi-party affiliation, particularly his move to the BJP in 2003 after a hiatus, suggests a strategic ability to adapt to changing political landscapes and remain relevant. This adaptability ultimately positioned him for significant constitutional roles under the BJP, demonstrating a capacity to align with prevailing political currents and leverage his experience across different political environments.
His integration and rise within the BJP were notably facilitated by his established legal expertise. Upon joining the party, he focused on "legal and organization matters" and by 2016 was leading the party's "law and legal affairs department" in Rajasthan.2 This specialized application of his legal acumen proved to be a valuable asset for the BJP, providing him a clear pathway to leadership within the party structure. This role significantly contributed to his political prominence within the BJP, laying the groundwork for his subsequent appointments as Governor and, ultimately, Vice President, where his constitutional interpretations and legal arguments became central to his public persona and policy positions.
Key Milestones in Jagdeep Dhankhar's Career
4. Governorship of West Bengal: A Period of Confrontation
Jagdeep Dhankhar's tenure as the Governor of West Bengal from July 2019 to July 2022 marked a pivotal phase in his public life, characterized by frequent and high-profile confrontations with the state government led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.2 This period not only brought him significant national attention but also served as a precursor to his subsequent role as Vice President.
Appointment and Tenure
Dhankhar was appointed as the Governor of West Bengal on July 30, 2019, and served in this capacity until July 18, 2022.3 His appointment was seen by some as a significant elevation for a relatively new entrant to the BJP's higher echelons.7
Key Conflicts and Assertive Approach
His governorship was defined by a famously combative relationship with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government.8 Dhankhar frequently criticized the state government on a range of issues, including allegations of post-poll violence, concerns over law enforcement, accusations of corruption, and irregularities in university appointments.8 He often utilized his constitutional position to raise questions and demand accountability from the state administration, leading to public spats and an atmosphere of constant friction.
In response, the Trinamool-led state government accused him of delaying crucial legislation by sitting on bills.8 The conflict escalated to a point where, in 2022, the state legislature passed a law specifically aimed at stripping the Governor of the role of university chancellor, reassigning it instead to the Chief Minister. This legislative action was a clear and direct rebuke of Dhankhar's assertive and often interventionist approach.8
Resignation as Governor
Dhankhar resigned from his post as Governor on July 17, 2022, a day before his tenure officially ended, following his nomination as the Vice-Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).3
The contentious nature of Dhankhar's governorship in West Bengal, marked by "high-profile run-ins" with the state government, significantly elevated his national profile.2 This period effectively served as a crucible, preparing him for the confrontational aspects he would encounter as Vice President and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. His willingness to challenge the state government and his assertive interpretation of his constitutional role as Governor demonstrated a readiness to engage in robust public discourse and uphold what he perceived as constitutional propriety, even if it led to friction. This experience likely honed his skills in navigating political opposition and articulating strong positions, which became defining characteristics of his subsequent tenure in the Vice-Presidential office.
5. Vice Presidency: Constitutional Role and Assertive Leadership
Jagdeep Dhankhar's ascent to the Vice Presidency in 2022 marked the pinnacle of his political career, where he assumed the crucial dual roles of Vice President of India and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. His tenure, though relatively brief, was characterized by an assertive leadership style and a distinct approach to parliamentary proceedings.
Nomination and Election
In July 2022, Jagdeep Dhankhar was nominated by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) as its candidate for the office of Vice President of India.2 The BJP projected him as a "kisan putra" (farmer's son), emphasizing his humble origins and connection to the agricultural community.3 He filed his nomination papers on July 18, 2022, accompanied by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior BJP leaders.3
On August 6, 2022, Dhankhar emerged victorious in the Vice-Presidential election, securing a historic margin against the opposition candidate, Margaret Alva. He received 528 out of 710 valid votes, approximately 74.4% of the total, marking the highest poll-victory margin since the 1992 election.2
Tenure and Role as Chairman of Rajya Sabha
Dhankhar was sworn into office on August 11, 2022, by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, succeeding Venkaiah Naidu.2 As Vice President, he concurrently presided as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, bringing his extensive legal expertise and parliamentary experience to bear on the proceedings of India's upper house.2 His term was constitutionally set to continue until August 2027.2
Key Contributions and Initiatives
During his time in office, Dhankhar was noted for advocating economic reforms and backing the Other Backward Classes (OBC) status for the Jat community, to which he belongs.2 As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, he actively promoted parliamentary decorum and made notable efforts to increase women's representation in the house.2 He also championed efficiency in the Secretariat and oversaw the modernization of Rajya Sabha TV.11 His leadership included significant parliamentary transitions, such as the shift from the old Parliament House in 2023.6 He also addressed a joint session of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha in the Central Hall of Parliament on September 19, 2023, marking the end of the historic building's use.3
Dhankhar's assertive enforcement of decorum and strong defense of parliamentary supremacy, particularly during debates like the Women's Reservation Bill and in response to judicial rulings, marked a significant departure from the more traditional, often ceremonial, role of his predecessors.11 This approach, characterized by frequent and high-profile run-ins with the opposition, redefined the Vice-Presidential role. It demonstrated a willingness to engage directly in political discourse and constitutional interpretation from the chair, rather than maintaining a strictly neutral stance. This shift has implications for the future conduct of the office, potentially setting a precedent for a more active and constitutionally vocal Vice President, influencing the legislative-executive dynamics in India's parliamentary system.
6. Controversies and Key Arguments during Vice Presidency
Jagdeep Dhankhar's three-year tenure as Vice President and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha was notably marked by frequent public statements and actions that courted controversy, distinguishing his approach from that of many predecessors.8 His interventions often reflected strong views on constitutional principles, judicial accountability, and parliamentary conduct.
Judicial Overreach and Parliamentary Supremacy
A central theme of Dhankhar's arguments was his strong critique of perceived judicial overreach and his staunch defense of parliamentary supremacy. He publicly questioned the Supreme Court's 2015 decision to nullify the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) Act, calling it a "glaring compromise" of the legislature's authority.8 In December 2022, in the presence of then Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, Dhankhar stated, "Please find out a parallel in the world where a Constitutional provision can be undone... Nowhere does it say that a provision can be run down." He expressed surprise at the lack of parliamentary discussion on this verdict, deeming it "too serious an issue".12
He further proposed revisiting the 1991 K. Veeraswami Judgement, which addressed the applicability of the Prevention of Corruption Act to higher court judges. Terming this judgment a "judicial legerdemain," he identified it as the "genesis of the problem of corruption in the judiciary".12 While acknowledging criticism for such speeches, he clarified in Rajya Sabha that delegitimizing the Judiciary was "beyond my contemplation," emphasizing that it is a pillar of democracy and urging political leaders not to subject high constitutional offices to partisan stances.12
Farmers' Rights and MSP Advocacy
Unlike the government's official stance, Dhankhar took a distinct position on farmers' protests and the demand for a statutory Minimum Support Price (MSP). Since December 2024, he made several speeches advocating for farmers' rights. At a function attended by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, he urged the Centre to engage in dialogue with protesting farmers, questioning why promises made to them remained unfulfilled.12
He emphasized that dialogue with farmers was crucial for India's unity, stating, "We cannot fight with our own people... Those whom we need to embrace cannot be pushed away".12 Regarding MSP, he expressed his inability to understand why a formula rewarding farmers could not be devised, dismissing inflation concerns by highlighting the vast disparity between raw produce prices and final product costs.12
Parliamentary Decorum and Privilege
Dhankhar consistently reminded Members of Parliament (MPs) that their constitutional privileges were not unqualified but came with "very heavy responsibility." He asserted that "every word spoken in the parliament must be after due thought, after due consideration. It can’t be based on unverified situations. House cannot be made a wrestling ground of free fall of information".12 He also warned against arrogance in public life, advocating for resilience and respect for differing viewpoints, stating that believing "I am the only one who is right" is "not democracy" but "ego" and "arrogance".12
Other Political Stances
Dhankhar's public statements also encompassed other politically charged topics. He openly praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), calling it a "global think tank" with an "unquestionable" role in nation-building, a remark that closely aligned him with the ruling party's worldview.8 He also made veiled accusations, widely interpreted as targeting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, by stating that certain constitutional figures were acting as "enemies of the nation".8 Furthermore, he participated in the debate on Sanatana Dharma, expressing pain that references to "Sanatan" and "Hindu" in India often evoke "baffling reaction beyond comprehension" instead of understanding their deep meaning, criticizing such reactions as "ignorance in extremity".12
Clashes with Opposition and Mass Suspensions
Dhankhar's interactions with opposition members frequently escalated into conflict, leading to a tumultuous tenure marked by "intense clashes" and "high drama".8 In August 2023, he declined to summon Prime Minister Modi to speak in the Rajya Sabha regarding the violence in Manipur, asserting it was the PM's decision when to attend.8 The relationship further deteriorated in the Winter Session of 2023, when an unprecedented 146 lawmakers, predominantly from opposition benches, were suspended for demanding a discussion on a Parliament security breach. This mass suspension was the largest in Indian legislative history, deepening the divide between Dhankhar and the opposition.8 In December 2024, he faced a rare no-confidence motion filed by the opposition, making him the first Vice President to face such a prospect, though it did not advance.8 He also dismissed opposition efforts to raise farmers' protests as "crocodile tears" and accused them of exploiting the disqualification of wrestler Vinesh Phogat for political mileage.8
Dhankhar's strong views on judicial overreach and parliamentary supremacy, particularly his questioning of the Supreme Court's NJAC verdict and the K. Veeraswami case, reflect a distinct constitutional philosophy that prioritizes legislative authority. His arguments suggest a belief in the clear separation of powers with an emphasis on Parliament's ultimate sovereignty in law-making and constitutional interpretation. These stances, while rooted in constitutional principles, contributed significantly to the "deep polarization" observed in Parliament, as they often placed him in direct opposition to the judiciary and the political opposition.
Moreover, his public statements, which often aligned with the ruling party's ideological positions (e.g., praise for RSS, comments on Sanatana Dharma), were strategically balanced by instances where he took a stance seemingly independent of the government, such as his vocal support for farmers' rights and the demand for MSP. This dual approach allowed him to maintain a degree of popular appeal while serving as a strong proponent for the government's larger constitutional agenda. This ability to navigate partisan waters while occupying a high constitutional post underscores a calculated political strategy, aiming to shape public discourse and parliamentary norms in line with his and the ruling party's vision.
7. The Resignation: Context, Impact, and Unanswered Questions
Jagdeep Dhankhar's sudden resignation from the office of Vice President on July 21, 2025, sent ripples across India's political landscape, sparking widespread speculation and debate due to its unexpected timing and stated reasons.9
Official Reason and Timing
Dhankhar tendered his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu, citing "health concerns and the need to follow medical advice" as the primary reasons.5 His resignation letter invoked Article 67(a) of the Constitution, making his departure effective immediately.9 This decision came just over three years into his five-year term, which was originally set to conclude in August 2027.2
The timing of his resignation was particularly striking: it occurred on the first day of the Monsoon session of Parliament, and notably, just hours after he had presided over Rajya Sabha proceedings.7 Earlier that day, he had appeared to be in good health, making his characteristic interventions and showing no overt signs of the graveness he later cited for his exit.7 He had even attended a meeting of the business advisory committee of the House and a government statement had indicated he would be visiting Jaipur two days later.7 While it was reported that he had undergone a cardiac procedure in March and fainted in June, his appearance on the day of resignation did not overtly suggest an immediate health crisis.7
Political Reactions and Speculation
The announcement caught both the ruling BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition parties by surprise.7 Opposition leaders, in particular, expressed skepticism regarding the official health explanation. Many questioned the timing and suggested deeper political motivations. Congress MP Mallu Ravi opined that it was "more about his political ill-health than physical ill-health," speculating that the BJP might want to replace him with someone who could assist in upcoming elections, such as those in Bihar.14 Congress leader Udit Raj questioned if the move was "done to avoid these issues" such as the "Operation Sindoor matter and the voter list in Bihar".14 Danish Ali of Congress described the resignation as "completely unexpected" and "politically motivated," even suggesting it could be an attempt to pressure Prime Minister Modi to resign before the age of 75.14
The Congress party formally appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to persuade Dhankhar to reconsider, with Jairam Ramesh, Congress general secretary, calling the resignation "as shocking as it is inexplicable" and hinting at "far more... than meets the eye".14 Ramesh also pointed out that Dhankhar had scheduled a meeting of the Business Advisory Committee and was expected to make significant announcements regarding the judiciary the following day.14 CPI MP P. Sandosh Kumar called the move "quite unexpected," suggesting Dhankhar "might be dissatisfied with some developments".14
Interestingly, the opposition, which had previously moved an impeachment motion against Dhankhar in December 2024, accusing him of partisanship, suddenly shifted its tone to one of concern and well-wishes.14 Conversely, the usual effusive praise from the ruling BJP-led NDA was conspicuously absent, with Prime Minister Modi's post on X being notably brief.17
Historical Precedent and Uniqueness
Dhankhar's resignation marks a rare occurrence in modern Indian political history. He is only the third Vice President of India to resign during his tenure, following V.V. Giri (1969) and R. Venkataraman (1984).7 However, his resignation is unique in that both Giri and Venkataraman had stepped down to contest the presidential election.7 Dhankhar's exit, not being for a higher office, stands out as an unprecedented mid-term departure for reasons other than contesting the presidency.7
The widespread skepticism surrounding the stated "health reasons" for Dhankhar's resignation, especially given his active participation in Parliament just hours prior, points to a deeper political undercurrent. The timing, coinciding with the Monsoon session and critical parliamentary discussions, suggests that the decision might have been influenced by factors beyond personal health. This discrepancy has fueled speculation about internal party dynamics, unforeseen political developments, or strategic repositioning by the ruling party. The surprise expressed by both government and opposition leaders further underscores the unexpected nature of the move, indicating that this was not a widely anticipated or coordinated political maneuver.
This unprecedented mid-term exit, particularly as it was not for the purpose of contesting a higher office, carries significant implications for the constitutional office of the Vice President and broader political norms. It deviates from established conventions and could potentially set new precedents regarding the stability and perceived political independence of high constitutional posts. The sudden vacancy, coupled with the lack of a clear, universally accepted explanation, raises questions about the pressures and considerations that might lead an incumbent to vacate such a pivotal position prematurely, potentially influencing future appointments and the public's perception of these offices.
8. Vice-Presidential Succession: Process and Potential Candidates
Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation has triggered the constitutional process for electing a new Vice President, a development that has immediately shifted focus to the dynamics of the electoral college and the political strategies of major alliances.
Constitutional Process for Election
The Vice President of India is elected by an electoral college comprising members of both Houses of Parliament—the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. This includes both elected and nominated members of Parliament.19 The election is conducted in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote, with voting by secret ballot.19 Members of the electoral college are not bound by any party whip, allowing them to vote according to their choice.23
To be eligible for election as Vice President, a person must be a citizen of India, have completed 35 years of age, and be qualified for election as a member of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha). They must not hold any office of profit under the Government of India or any state government.19 If a member of Parliament or a state legislature is elected Vice President, they are deemed to have vacated their seat in that House on the date they assume office.21
The election to fill a vacancy caused by resignation must be held "as soon as possible" after the occurrence, though unlike the President's office, there is no fixed six-month outer limit for filling the vacancy.9 The Election Commission of India is responsible for conducting this election.21 The Returning Officer, typically the Secretary-General of either House by rotation, issues a public notice inviting nominations. A candidate needs at least 20 MPs as proposers and 20 MPs as seconders, along with a security deposit of Rs. 15,000.21 The newly elected Vice President serves a full five-year term from the date of assuming office, regardless of the remainder of the predecessor's term.19 Until a new Vice President is elected, the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman can conduct the proceedings of the House.9
Numerical Strength of Alliances
The current combined effective strength of both Houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) stands at 786 members, accounting for six vacancies (one in Lok Sabha and five in Rajya Sabha).25 To secure a victory, a candidate would need to obtain at least 394 votes, assuming full turnout.25
The ruling BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) holds a comfortable majority in the vice-presidential electoral college.9 The BJP alone commands 240 members in Lok Sabha and 99 in Rajya Sabha. Including its allies, the NDA is projected to have the support of more than 457 members.30 Specifically, the NDA commands the support of 293 MPs in the 542-member Lok Sabha and 129 MPs in the Rajya Sabha (effective strength: 240), including likely backing from nominated members, totaling a projected 422 votes.25 This numerical advantage positions the NDA for a comfortable victory.25
In contrast, the INDIA bloc parties and those aligned with them collectively have a little over 300 members in the two houses.30 Non-aligned parties, such as the Biju Janata Dal, YSR Congress, and Bharat Rashtra Samithi, account for around 30 votes in Rajya Sabha and have historically often backed the government in contested legislations.30
Potential Candidates and Political Strategy
Speculation is rife regarding potential candidates for the Vice President's post. Among the leading names being discussed for the NDA's nominee is Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, a Janata Dal (United) MP, who has held the role since 2020 and is viewed as someone who enjoys the government's trust.9
The BJP is expected to choose a nominee from a broad pool that includes current governors, senior leaders from the party organization, or serving Union ministers.9 There is strong speculation that the candidate might represent a significant portion of the backward or extremely backward classes.28 Ram Nath Thakur, Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and son of Bharat Ratna awardee Karpoori Thakur (belonging to the Nai community, an ati-pichhara caste), is a prominent name circulating.28 BJP's current president, J.P. Nadda, is also being discussed.28 Other names surfacing include former Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje, present Bihar Governor Md. Arif Khan, and former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi.28
The BJP's candidate selection is likely to factor in upcoming Assembly elections, particularly in Bihar this year and West Bengal next year.28 Despite the comfortable numerical advantage, the BJP is known for springing surprises in its choices for high constitutional offices.28
On the opposition side, while a candidate fighting the ruling combine's choice is unlikely to win given the numbers, speculation has included names like Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor.27 However, the possibility of Nitish Kumar's nomination has been downplayed by a senior JDU member.28 Shashi Tharoor's name has been circulated among Kerala politicians, given his recent loggerheads with Congress leadership and cooperation with the Modi government on certain issues.32 However, it remains to be seen if the BJP would choose an "outsider" for such a crucial constitutional post.32 A clearer picture regarding the Vice-Presidential candidate is expected after Prime Minister Narendra Modi returns from his overseas visit, likely after July 26.28
The comfortable numerical advantage held by the NDA in both Houses of Parliament means that the selection of the next Vice President is largely within the ruling alliance's control. This statistical reality shapes the political strategy, allowing the BJP to prioritize strategic calculations beyond mere winnability. The emphasis on choosing a "non-controversial," "neutral and seasoned" individual, potentially from a backward class or a politically significant state like Bihar or West Bengal, indicates a multi-faceted approach. This approach aims not only to fill a constitutional vacancy but also to achieve broader political objectives, such as social engineering, strengthening alliances, or signaling intent for upcoming state elections. The selection process, therefore, becomes a key indicator of the ruling party's political priorities and its strategy for maintaining and expanding its influence across diverse demographics and regions.
Conclusion
Jagdeep Dhankhar's tenure as Vice President of India and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha concludes a remarkable career defined by a blend of legal excellence, political adaptability, and a distinctive, assertive approach to constitutional governance. His journey from a rural village to the nation's second-highest office underscores the transformative power of education and relentless dedication. His legal background profoundly shaped his public service, providing him with the analytical tools and constitutional understanding that became hallmarks of his roles as Governor and Vice President.
As Governor of West Bengal, Dhankhar's combative relationship with the state government, though controversial, undeniably elevated his national profile, preparing him for the intense scrutiny and opposition he would face in New Delhi. His Vice-Presidency marked a notable departure from traditional approaches to the office, as he consistently championed parliamentary supremacy, judicial accountability, and decorum, often engaging in direct confrontations with the opposition. His strong views on issues like the NJAC, the K. Veeraswami judgment, and farmers' rights, while sometimes aligning with the ruling party, also demonstrated a nuanced constitutional philosophy.
His unexpected mid-term resignation, citing health reasons, has generated significant political discourse, with many observers questioning the stated cause and speculating on deeper political motivations. This unprecedented departure, not for the pursuit of higher office, raises important questions about the pressures and dynamics within high constitutional echelons.
Looking ahead, the process for selecting the next Vice President is firmly underway, with the NDA holding a clear numerical advantage in the electoral college. The ruling party's selection will likely be a strategic decision, balancing considerations of experience, neutrality, social representation, and regional political implications, particularly with upcoming state elections in mind. Dhankhar's legacy will be remembered for his assertive style and his vocal advocacy for parliamentary authority, leaving an indelible mark on the conduct of the Vice-Presidential office in India's democratic framework.
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