An official in the President’s office described the visit as entirely unanticipated, adding that staff were taken by surprise when Dhankhar arrived without prior notice. Though military secretaries were quickly alerted and a brief private meeting with President Murmu ensued, no public photographs have yet been released.
Political commentators have pointed to the timing of the resignation. It occurred on the first day of Parliament’s Monsoon Session, with Dhankhar having assumed office in August 2022 and his term initially scheduled to extend until August 2027. His departure during this pivotal session has prompted speculation across party lines.
Opposition leaders have expressed scepticism regarding the health explanation. Several have urged the government to clarify the circumstances leading to the abrupt exit. A congress spokesperson questioned whether deeper political dynamics were at play. Rajasthan’s former chief minister, Ashok Gehlot, claimed that Dhankhar was likely under political pressure, and pointed to his public criticism of a Cabinet minister on farmers’ issues as possible catalysts.
The Jharkhand ruling coalition echoed similar concerns, alleging that Dhankhar clashed with BJP MPs over the focus of parliamentary agenda. They claimed he sought urgent discussion on the military’s Operation Sindoor, while the ruling party preferred to emphasise debates on infrastructure privatisation—allegations that were subsequently denied by BJP representatives insisting on the health rationale.
Dhankhar’s resignation letter conveyed “deep appreciation” for President Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, thanking them for support and referring to a “wonderful working relationship”. He stated the decision was taken to “prioritise health care and abide by medical advice”. The medical specifics of his health status were not disclosed.
The resignation has ignited renewed scrutiny of Dhankhar’s previous public comments. A video, now circulating again online, in which he spoke of stepping down in 2027 and invoked “divine intervention”, has drawn fresh interest amid ongoing speculation over his motives.
Constitutionally, Article 67 permits the Vice‑President to resign at any time. With Dhankhar's departure, he became the first to vacate the office mid‑term. The Home Ministry has since published an official gazette notice accepting the resignation, and the President has begun consultations to appoint an interim chairperson for the Rajya Sabha.
This unexpected resignation has intensified political debate just as the Monsoon Session commenced. Parliament is expected to address the interim leadership in the Rajya Sabha, sparking speculation about the government's next nominee and whether the episode may herald broader shifts in legislative priorities.