Key Highlights:
- Rajya Sabha sees repeated adjournments as Opposition MPs protest, with Deputy Chairman Harivansh presiding after Dhankhar’s resignation.
- VP Jagdeep Dhankhar steps down citing health reasons, cutting short his five-year tenure by two years.
- PM Modi lauds Dhankhar’s service, while the Upper House remains in disarray over the sudden leadership vacuum.
Harivansh Steps In as Rajya Sabha Faces Chaos Post Dhankhar’s Resignation
The Rajya Sabha witnessed turbulent scenes on Tuesday as Deputy Chairman Harivansh took charge of proceedings following the unexpected resignation of Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The Upper House faced multiple adjournments—first till noon, then till 2 PM—amid relentless protests by Opposition MPs.
Constitutional Vacancy & Immediate Fallout
As the session began, the Chair acknowledged the vacancy, stating, “The occurrence of a vacancy in the office of the Vice-President is envisaged in the Constitution. Further updates will be shared once received.” However, disruptions forced an early adjournment.
When the House reconvened at noon, Ghanshyam Tiwari read out an official notification confirming Dhankhar’s resignation under Article 67A, effective immediately. Yet, before Question Hour could proceed, the session was adjourned again.
PM Modi’s Tribute to Dhankhar
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) to commend Dhankhar’s contributions: “Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji served the nation in multiple roles, including as Vice-President. Wishing him good health.”
By 2 PM, Deputy Chairman Harivansh attempted to resume business, urging MPs to discuss the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill. But with continued protests, the House was adjourned within minutes, pushing key legislative work to Wednesday.
Behind Dhankhar’s Sudden Exit
The Vice-President’s resignation, submitted to President Droupadi Murmu, cited health concerns—a reason that had previously led to his hospitalization earlier this year. Despite returning to duties afterward, Dhankhar opted for an early departure, cutting short his five-year term.
In his farewell note, Dhankhar expressed gratitude to the President for her “unwavering support” and thanked PM Modi, the Council of Ministers, and MPs for their camaraderie. His final address on Monday had called for “dialogue over discord”, urging unity in Parliament.
As the Monsoon Session continues, the Rajya Sabha braces for more debates—not just on pending bills, but also on the implications of Dhankhar’s abrupt departure.
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