In a surprising turn of events, Jagdeep Dhankhar has resigned from his position as the Vice President of India, effective immediately. Citing "medical advice" and a need to "prioritise health care," Dhankhar's resignation comes on the first day of the monsoon session of Parliament, leaving many to wonder what's next for the Rajya Sabha and the nation.
What Happens Next?
Dhankhar's resignation triggers the constitutional process for electing a new Vice President. The Election Commission is expected to announce the schedule for the election in the coming days. Article 67(a) of the Constitution dictates the resignation process. According to constitutional provisions, a vice presidential vacancy must be filled within 60 days through an election by members of both Houses of Parliament using proportional representation by a single transferable vote system.
In the interim, the duties of the Vice President, including chairing the Rajya Sabha, will be handled by the Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, Harivansh Narayan Singh. The Constitution does not provide specific guidance on succession in this scenario, but convention dictates that the Deputy Chairperson steps in to fulfill the responsibilities of the office.
Who Will Chair the Rajya Sabha?
With Jagdeep Dhankhar's immediate departure, Harivansh Narayan Singh, the Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, will assume the responsibilities of the chair. This arrangement will remain in place until a new Vice President is elected. The Vice President serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The Chairman presides over the sessions, maintains order, and guides the proceedings of the Upper House.
When is the Next VP Election?
The Election Commission of India is responsible for organizing and overseeing the election of the Vice President. Given that the Vice President's office must be filled within 60 days, the election is likely to occur within the next two months.
The Vice President is elected by an electoral college comprising members of both Houses of Parliament. The election is held using a system of proportional representation with a single transferable vote, and voting is conducted via a secret ballot.
Dhankhar's Tenure and Key Issues
Jagdeep Dhankhar assumed office as the Vice President of India on August 11, 2022. Prior to this, he served as the Governor of West Bengal from 2019 to 2022. During his tenure as Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman, Dhankhar often emphasized the importance of parliamentary supremacy.
In his farewell address to the Rajya Sabha, Dhankhar raised concerns about several important matters, including a motion to impeach a High Court judge and the discovery of unclaimed cash within the House. He also expressed his opposition to the Supreme Court's Basic Structure Doctrine and a verdict requiring the President and Governors to act on bills.
Dhankhar's resignation letter expressed gratitude to the President, Prime Minister, and members of Parliament for their support during his time in office. He also acknowledged the "invaluable experiences and insights" he gained as Vice President.
