New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu has accepted the resignation of Vice-President (VP) Jagdeep Dhankhar, whose unexpected decision yesterday sent shockwaves through the political landscape. Her approval has been forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs, with an official notification expected shortly.

The 74-year-old Dhankhar announced his resignation on Monday, shortly after presiding over the first day of the Parliament’s Monsoon Session as Rajya Sabha Chairman. In his letter to the President, he cited health concerns and the need to prioritise medical advice.

The sudden move has raised eyebrows, particularly within the Opposition. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, who spoke to Dhankhar just two hours before the announcement, said the Vice-President appeared composed and gave no indication of any imminent decision.

“There’s perhaps far more to this resignation than meets the eye,” he remarked.

Adding to the intrigue was a row over the absence of Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Kiren Rijiju from a crucial Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting at 4.30 pm on Monday.

Dhankhar was reportedly upset over their no-show, though both had attended the earlier meeting at 12.30 pm. Nadda later clarified that they had informed Dhankhar in advance, citing urgent Parliamentary commitments.

The resignation has triggered a flurry of consultations among Opposition leaders. Floor leaders from both Houses met ahead of today’s proceedings, with AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and LoP Rahul Gandhi among those present.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a statement, praised Dhankhar’s contributions, noting that he had “many opportunities to serve the nation in various capacities.”

Dhankhar was absent from the Rajya Sabha today. As per Article 67 of the Constitution, Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh will discharge the duties of the Vice-President until a new one is elected.

Appointed in August 2022, Dhankhar’s term was scheduled to run until 2027.