Dhankhar’s Sudden Resignation Tied to Surprise Move on Judge Impeachment

In a dramatic turn of events just hours before his resignation, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar approved a critical motion in the Rajya Sabha that may have catalyzed his unexpected departure from office.

On Monday, Dhankhar gave his assent to an Opposition-backed proposal to initiate impeachment proceedings against Justice Yashwant Varma of the Delhi High Court. According to sources, the government was not informed in advance—a move that reportedly caught the Centre off guard.

Prior to announcing his resignation, Dhankhar confirmed receipt of the motion seeking the judge’s removal. This followed a months-long controversy surrounding the recovery of large sums of cash from Justice Varma’s residence after a fire-related incident in the capital. Dhankhar stated that the motion, which met the constitutional threshold with signatures from more than 50 Rajya Sabha MPs, was now formally under process. He further directed the Secretary General to initiate statutory proceedings under relevant provisions.

Compounding the tension, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal informed the Upper House that a parallel resolution had been submitted by 152 Lok Sabha MPs to the Speaker, reflecting the government’s own intent to pursue impeachment. However, Dhankhar’s prior approval of the Opposition’s motion in the Rajya Sabha effectively pre-empted the government’s strategy.

"This notice has been received today, signed by over 50 members of the Council of States. It meets the required constitutional threshold to initiate the process for removal of a high court judge. With the Law Minister confirming that a similar motion has been submitted in the Lok Sabha, Section 3(2) of the Judges (Inquiry) Act comes into effect," Dhankhar announced in the Rajya Sabha.

According to exclusive information obtained by CNN-News18, the ruling administration was not consulted in advance about Dhankhar’s acceptance of the motion. A senior source remarked, "Had the government been informed, ruling party MPs would have also joined the initiative. This unilateral move undermined coordinated political consensus."

The development reportedly triggered discontent within top government circles. Senior ministers are said to have called Dhankhar, expressing serious concerns over his decision, particularly as it risked diluting the government’s strong anti-corruption stance in the judiciary.

In the midst of growing political heat, Dhankhar tendered his resignation to the President late Monday, citing medical reasons and the advice of health professionals.

As per constitutional requirements, an election to fill the vacant post of Vice President must be held within 60 days. The Election Commission of India is expected to announce the schedule in due course. “This matter lies within the purview of the Election Commission, not the government,” a senior official clarified.

Opposition Reacts Sharply

Dhankhar’s abrupt resignation sparked widespread reactions across the political spectrum. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh described the move as “inexplicable,” while Congress MP Mallu Ravi questioned the official explanation, stating, “He conducted the Rajya Sabha session over two days without any visible signs of ill health. This seems more political than medical—perhaps a strategic reshuffle ahead of the Bihar elections.”

CPI(M) MP John Brittas voiced his unease, saying, “The entire House functioned smoothly under his leadership. It’s troubling to suggest that this resignation is purely health-related.”

Government Maintains Silence

The government has refrained from making official comments on the circumstances surrounding the resignation. However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted a message on X (formerly Twitter), praising Dhankhar’s service in public life and governance, especially in his capacity as Vice President. “His contributions to the nation are commendable. I wish him good health and continued service to the country,” the Prime Minister wrote.