What Happens Next After Jagdeep Dhankhar's Resignation as Vice President?

Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation as Vice President of India triggers the need for a swift election to fill the vacancy. The Constitution mandates that a new vice president be elected promptly, with specific eligibility criteria outlined. This article delves into the implications of his resignation, the election process, and the responsibilities of the vice president during a vacancy. Discover what this means for India's political landscape and the future of the vice presidency.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 22, 2025, 09:42 IST

Implications of Jagdeep Dhankhar's Resignation

New Delhi: Following Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation from the Vice Presidency, an election to appoint his successor must occur "as soon as possible."

According to Article 68, Clause 2 of the Constitution, a vacancy in the vice presidency due to resignation, death, or removal necessitates a prompt election to fill the position.

The newly elected vice president will serve a full five-year term starting from the date they assume office.

The Constitution does not specify who will fulfill the vice president's responsibilities during a vacancy or when the vice president is acting as the President of India.

As the second highest constitutional authority in the nation, the vice president serves a five-year term but remains in office until a successor is appointed.

The only constitutional provision regarding the vice president's role as chairperson of the Rajya Sabha states that during a vacancy, the deputy chairperson or another authorized member will perform these duties.

A vice president can resign by submitting a resignation letter to the president, which takes effect upon acceptance.

The vice president serves as the ex-officio chairperson of the Rajya Sabha and does not hold any other profit-generating office.

When acting as president, the vice president does not perform the chairperson duties of the Rajya Sabha and is not entitled to the associated salary or allowances.

According to Article 66, the vice president is elected by an Electoral College comprising members from both houses of Parliament, using a proportional representation system with a single transferable vote.

Eligibility criteria for vice presidency include being an Indian citizen, at least 35 years old, and qualified to be a Rajya Sabha member.

Additionally, individuals holding any profit-generating office under the Government of India, state governments, or local authorities are disqualified.