India’s political corridors are abuzz with activity after Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar submitted his resignation citing medical reasons. His unexpected departure has not only cut short his five-year term—originally set to end in August 2027—but also set the stage for a high-stakes election for the second-highest constitutional post in India.
The Election Commission of India has confirmed that the process to elect the new Vice President is underway, although the actual dates of polling are yet to be announced. Until then, the political temperature in Delhi is rising, with speculation running high about who the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA bloc will nominate.
Why Did Jagdeep Dhankhar Resign?
Dhankhar, known for his sharp legal mind and proactive role in the Rajya Sabha, was considered a close ally of the ruling BJP. His resignation has come as a shock. While he cited medical grounds, insiders claim he had been battling persistent health issues over the past several months. There has been no public controversy or political fallout leading to his resignation, suggesting it is indeed a personal health matter.
Election Process: A Quick Primer
The Vice President of India is elected through an electoral college comprising members of both Houses of Parliament—Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The election uses a proportional representation system via a single transferable vote and is conducted through a secret ballot.
Given the BJP’s strength in both Houses, along with support from allies, the NDA holds a significant numerical advantage. As such, the NDA’s nominee is likely to win, barring any major internal differences or surprises.
The Frontrunners: Who Could Replace Dhankhar?
Several names are already circulating in the power corridors. However, no official announcement has been made by the BJP or its allies.
1. Harivansh Narayan Singh – JD(U)
- Currently the Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha
- Known for his neutral conduct in the Upper House
- Seen as the front-runner, being a JD(U) senior and well-respected across party lines
2. Nitish Kumar – Bihar Chief Minister
- Although he is serving as CM and recently returned to the NDA fold, political watchers believe he could be “rewarded” with a dignified constitutional position, particularly if he wants a national role without direct involvement in governance.
3. Ram Nath Thakur – MoS, Agriculture
- Son of the legendary socialist leader Karpoori Thakur
- Belongs to the Extremely Backward Class (EBC) community
- BJP president JP Nadda’s recent meeting with him has triggered buzz
4. Manoj Sinha – J&K Lieutenant Governor
- A seasoned BJP politician and former Union Minister
- Known for his administrative capabilities and calm temperament
- His name has been quietly floating in senior BJP circles
BJP’s Strategic Dilemma: Ally or Core Party Pick?
While Harivansh, Ram Nath Thakur, and Nitish Kumar are from JD(U)—currently BJP’s strongest ally—there’s still uncertainty on whether BJP will hand over the Vice Presidential post to an ally. BJP has a history of rewarding loyalty, but also keeping the highest constitutional positions within the party or surprise choices from underrepresented communities.
The TDP, another key NDA ally, has so far not projected any name for the post. However, analysts are watching closely whether a name emerges from Andhra Pradesh to consolidate southern support.
Reports suggest that the BJP might pick someone from within the party ranks rather than from its allies. If so, names like Om Birla (Lok Sabha Speaker), CP Radhakrishnan (Governor of Jharkhand), or even Sudha Yadav (former MP and OBC leader) could be surprise picks.
Opposition’s Gameplan: INDIA Bloc’s Nominee
The INDIA bloc, meanwhile, is expected to field a common opposition candidate to show unity, even if they lack the numbers to win. A few names reportedly under discussion:
- Kapil Sibal, senior advocate and Rajya Sabha MP
- Ghulam Nabi Azad, veteran Congress leader turned rebel
- Sharad Yadav’s daughter, Subhashini Yadav, for symbolic reasons
However, internal coordination issues and lack of consensus may hurt the INDIA bloc’s chances of presenting a united front.
BJP’s Past Surprise Picks: Will History Repeat?
The BJP is known for springing surprises in top constitutional appointments:
- In 2017, Ram Nath Kovind, a relatively lesser-known Dalit leader, was picked as President.
- In 2022, Droupadi Murmu, a tribal woman from Odisha, became India’s first tribal woman President.
This pattern strengthens the possibility of an unexpected name emerging at the last moment—someone who ticks both political and symbolic boxes.
What Happens Next?
The Election Commission is expected to announce the schedule for Vice Presidential elections soon. As per Article 66 of the Constitution, the election must be conducted before the expiry of six months of the vacancy, but in this case, since Dhankhar resigned, a faster timeline is expected.
Once the dates are out, the formal notification will be issued, and nominations will be filed by interested candidates. Political parties will then officially declare their picks, and MPs will vote accordingly.
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