Dhankhar's Abrupt Resignation Leaves Even Critics Perplexed

In a political environment usually abuzz with rumors and strategic moves, the abrupt resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar—India's Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman—has left not just supporters but even Critics are shocked. Dhankhar's unexpected resignation in the middle of the term has left a void at the top due to his sharp legal thoughts, no-nonsense demeanor, & ideological inclinations toward the ruling coterie of constitutional leadership.

What makes this evolution all the more mystifying is that there is no apparent explanation. No stated official reason, no publicly declared health concern, or no urgent controversy in the recent past. For one who has established a career on brashness and confrontation, especially while serving like the Governor of West Bengal, a low-key departure is uncharacteristic.

Political commentators and insiders are rushing to interpret this resignation. Others are speculating about internal conflicts in the ruling alliance, maybe because of Dhankhar's increasingly independent positions in parliamentary sessions. Though he styed consistent in his support for the larger agenda, there were times when he let debates run, seemingly inconvenient to the government. Was that new-found independence a cause of unease in power quarters?

Others say Individual factors may be involved. At 74, Dhankhar is similar with the adversities of life in the public eye, having been a lawyer, Member of Parliament, Union Minister, and Governor before being Vice President. Some have speculated that he could be choosing a less hectic lifestyle after years of being in the limelight. However, those who have followed his career closely find this explanation unconvincing given his continued engagement and sharp public presence up to the day of resignation.

His resignation further poses immediate procedural and political issues. As Rajya Sabha Chairman, Dhankhar played a central role in keeping the upper house in order, which has seen stormy sessions in recent years. The lack of a presiding officer at this juncture—just months before the scheduled primaries voting may disturb legislative business, especially on controversial bills.

The opposition, though surprised, is moving with care. Opposition leaders, many of whom had been at odds with Dhankhar on procedural matters in the past, did not celebrate his departure. Instead, responses were distinguished by an unusual combination of astonishment and muted curiosity. It's not common in Indian politics for even enemies to be that surprised to the idea that they're left lacking a clear political spin.

Most bewildered, perhaps, are those who watched Dhankhar rise from humble roots in Rajasthan to the country's second-highest constitutional position. His climb was a testament to the potential in Indian democracy—a local leader with legal training ascending the political ranks through sheer willpower.

Rumor will continue to fill the void until Dhankhar himself addresses the nation.  Whether his resignation indicates increased churn in the growth or is the end of an era for an independent-thinking leader, only time will tell.  India is currently left via questions & a noticeable Rajya Sabha vacancy.