Kuch Garbar Hai — In a political development that has stirred speculation across party lines, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar submitted his resignation this week, citing “health reasons.” However, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has questioned the official narrative, asserting, “Uska health bilkul theek tha… kuch garbar hai” (“His health was absolutely fine… something is fishy”).
The comment, coming from one of Dhankhar’s most prominent critics during his tenure as Bengal Governor, has injected a dose of suspense into an already volatile political climate.
A Quiet Resignation, A Loud Reaction
Jagdeep Dhankhar, who had served as the Vice President of India since 2022, tendered his resignation to the President with immediate effect, invoking Article 67(a) of the Constitution. The resignation came ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament and has left several opposition leaders and analysts questioning the timing and motive behind the decision.
The central government issued a brief statement thanking Dhankhar for his service and wishing him well. But Chief Minister Banerjee’s remark has added a sharp edge to what was otherwise a seemingly straightforward exit.
Dhankhar’s Tumultuous History with Bengal
Dhankhar served as Governor of West Bengal from July 2019 to July 2022 before assuming the office of the Vice President. His tenure in the state was marked by frequent run-ins with Mamata Banerjee’s government, particularly over issues of governance, law and order, and university appointments.
He often took to social media and press briefings to voice criticism against the Bengal administration, prompting the Chief Minister to accuse him of overstepping his constitutional role.
Despite the friction, Mamata Banerjee’s current tone is notably subdued. Her choice of words— “I don’t believe he resigned because of his health”—hints at her belief that Dhankhar may have been pressured into stepping down.
Theories and Reactions: What Could Be Behind the Exit?
Though no official alternative reason has been provided, multiple political observers have pointed to recent friction between Dhankhar and the central government.
One theory suggests that Dhankhar’s recent stance on judicial matters, particularly his perceived support for certain opposition-led parliamentary motions, may have irked key figures within the ruling establishment. There are unconfirmed reports that Dhankhar allowed procedural moves in the Rajya Sabha that went against the Centre’s wishes—potentially triggering the abrupt exit.
Meanwhile, political circles in Delhi are abuzz with discussions about Dhankhar’s strained equation with the Union Cabinet and whispers of an internal ultimatum, possibly linked to his handling of specific legal controversies in the Upper House.
Kuch Garbar Hai: Silence Within the TMC
Interestingly, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), which has often clashed with Dhankhar in the past, has avoided celebrating his departure. Senior leaders have maintained a strategic silence, refusing to confirm or deny any internal assessments of the situation.
Some believe this reflects the party’s cautious approach ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. Others suggest Mamata’s surprising tone may reflect her calculation that Dhankhar had been sidelined by his own party—not an uncommon fate in Indian politics.
A Vacuum at the Top: What’s Next?
With the Vice President’s office now vacant, speculation has begun over possible successors. Names such as Rajnath Singh, India’s Defence Minister, and Om Birla, the current Lok Sabha Speaker, have been floated in political circles.
The process to elect the next Vice President will likely begin soon, with Parliament members from both Houses voting in a secret ballot. The outcome could significantly affect the tone and tenor of Rajya Sabha proceedings in the years to come.
Dhankhar’s Legacy
Though Dhankhar’s resignation has been sudden, his political career is anything but quiet. A former advocate and veteran of the Janata Dal and BJP, he rose through the ranks to become one of the most vocal Vice Presidents in recent history. His assertive interventions in the Rajya Sabha often sparked both admiration and controversy.
Whether Dhankhar’s exit marks the end of his political journey or a pause before a new role remains to be seen.
External References
- Vice President of India – Official Website
- President of India – Rashtrapati Bhavan
- The Constitution of India – Article 67(a)
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