Dhankhar resignation: BJP begins search for next Vice-President, party insider could make the cut

The initial shock over the resignation of Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar appears to be giving way to concerns within the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) over his possible successor. Senior coalition leaders indicated that the next nominee may be a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s close circle, with the political acumen required to manage proceedings in the Rajya Sabha.

Mr. Dhankhar, who became Vice-President following a term as Governor of West Bengal, had earlier been associated with the Janata Dal and the Congress party. Senior BJP leaders said a shortlist is being prepared, largely comprising BJP leaders, particularly those with gubernatorial experience. NDA partners have been informally conveyed that the replacement may be from the BJP.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi will only be back by July 26th after the conclusion of his visit to the UK and the Maldives. By that time we will have a short list ready, of possible candidates,” a senior BJP leader said.

‘Tensions were simmering between Dhankar and Centre’

Tensions between Mr. Dhankhar and the government had reportedly been simmering, especially over his public remarks on the judiciary and other institutions. Government managers felt these comments were avoidable, particularly at a time when the Centre was seeking to move beyond the confrontational legacy of the National Judicial Appointments Committee Bill.

“The government also felt that he could have used more tact in dealing with issues in the Rajya Sabha, while at the same time making sure that the government had its say,” the senior BJP leader said.

According to informed sources, Mr. Dhankhar was reportedly aggrieved by the government’s lack of visible support when an Opposition-sponsored motion of impeachment – unprecedented for a presiding officer of the Rajya Sabha – was moved against him. While Deputy Chairperson Harivansh dismissed the motion, no senior Union Minister publicly defended Mr. Dhankhar, a development that reportedly left him disappointed.

The Election Commission of India has said that it has begun preparations for the election of the next Vice-President. The government is hopeful that a new appointment will help bring closure to what it sees as a dramatic chapter for the post.