Election Commission Initiates Process for New Vice President Following Dhankar's Resignation

The Election Commission has commenced the process for electing a new vice president after Jagdeep Dhankar's resignation, which he attributed to health reasons. The Commission is set to announce the election schedule soon, with preparations already underway. This includes organizing the electoral college and finalizing election officials. The election process must be completed within 30 to 32 days once the schedule is revealed. Members of both Houses of Parliament will participate in the voting, which will be conducted via secret ballot. Stay tuned for more updates on this significant political event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 23, 2025, 20:32 IST

Election Preparations Underway

On Wednesday, the Election Commission announced that it has begun the process to hold elections for a new vice president, just two days after Jagdeep Dhankar stepped down from the position.

The Commission indicated that it would reveal the election schedule “as soon as possible.”

It confirmed receipt of the gazette notification from the Ministry of Home Affairs regarding Dhankar's resignation, which was issued on Tuesday.

Dhankar resigned late Monday night, citing the need to focus on his health and adhere to medical advice.

He assumed the vice presidency on August 11, 2022, and his term was set to last until 2027.

According to Article 324 of the Constitution, the Election Commission is responsible for overseeing the vice-presidential election, which is regulated by the 1974 Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Rules.

The Commission has already initiated pre-election activities, such as organizing the electoral college, which includes both elected and nominated members from the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, appointing the Returning Officer and Assistant Returning Officers, and preparing informational materials on past vice-presidential elections.

As per the 1974 regulations, once the election schedule is announced, the entire process must be completed within 30 to 32 days.

Candidates will have 14 days to submit their applications, followed by one day for application verification, and two days for candidates to withdraw if they choose. If a vote is necessary, it must occur at least 15 days after the withdrawal period concludes.

The Vice-President is elected by the members of both Houses of Parliament, including nominated members. Unlike the presidential election, state legislators do not participate in this voting process.

Voting takes place in the Parliament building in New Delhi through a secret ballot, where members rank candidates based on their preferences.

Also read: Congress Claims Dhankhar’s Resignation Was Unexpected and Suggests Deeper Issues