The recent resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar from the post of Vice-President of India has triggered a flurry of speculation and political debate. While Dhankhar cited health reasons for his sudden departure, opposition parties have raised concerns, with some alleging that the former VP was placed under "house arrest" and silenced by the government. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has firmly refuted these claims, asserting that Dhankhar's resignation was solely due to health issues and urging everyone not to make unnecessary speculations.
Dhankhar's resignation came as a surprise, occurring on July 21, the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. This timing, coupled with Dhankhar's relative absence from public view since then, has fueled rumors and conspiracy theories. Some opposition leaders have claimed that Dhankhar was "silenced", with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi hinting at a larger story behind the resignation and Dhankhar's current state. Kapil Sibal, a senior leader and Supreme Court advocate, even questioned whether a habeas corpus petition should be filed, alluding to concerns about Dhankhar's well-being and freedom. CPI MP P. Sandosh Kumar has also reportedly written to Dhankhar, seeking a public reassurance.
Amit Shah, in an interview with ANI, addressed the swirling speculation, stating that Dhankhar's resignation letter clearly indicated health reasons as the cause. Shah emphasized that Dhankhar held a constitutional post and carried out his responsibilities with dedication and in accordance with the Constitution. He urged people not to "stretch it too much and find something". Shah dismissed the opposition's "house arrest" claims, cautioning against relying solely on their statements to interpret the truth. He also noted that Dhankhar expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister and other ministers for his tenure.
Despite Shah's clarifications, speculation persists. Some reports suggest that Dhankhar is currently spending his time at the Vice President's Enclave, engaging in activities like yoga, table tennis, and spiritual reading. However, many remain skeptical, particularly as Dhankhar has not yet claimed his official residence. The lack of an immediate reaction from the government following Dhankhar's resignation further contributed to the initial uncertainty.
The upcoming Vice-Presidential election on September 9 adds another layer of intrigue to the situation. With the government maintaining that Dhankhar's departure was due to health concerns and the opposition continuing to raise questions, the episode has become a focal point of political discourse.
