Shashi Tharoor, Congress Leaders React to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s Sudden Resignation

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Tuesday expressed concern over Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s abrupt resignation, wishing him a speedy recovery and good health. Dhankhar, 74, stepped down on Monday evening, citing health reasons, just two years into his term that was supposed to run until 2027.
Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Tharoor said, “We’re concerned about his health. It’s unfortunate that he’s had a sudden health issue. Our best wishes are with him for a quick recovery.”
While Tharoor took a sympathetic tone, other Congress leaders openly questioned the timing and reasoning behind Dhankhar’s resignation. Some in the opposition have called on him to reconsider.
Congress MP Mallu Ravi noted that Dhankhar had presided over the Rajya Sabha recently without showing any signs of illness. “His letter mentions health concerns, but we feel this is more about political ill-health than physical,” he remarked.
Congress leader Udit Raj also called the resignation “strange,” joining a growing list of leaders demanding more clarity on the decision.
Senior Congress figure Jairam Ramesh called the resignation “shocking and inexplicable.” He added, “Of course, Mr. Dhankhar must prioritise his health. But clearly, this sudden move suggests there’s more going on behind the scenes.” Ramesh also pointed out that Dhankhar had scheduled important meetings for the next day, including one of the Business Advisory Committee and a planned announcement related to the judiciary.
While the Congress wished Dhankhar well, they also appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene. “We urge the Prime Minister to persuade Mr. Dhankhar to stay on. It’s in the national interest — and especially important for farmers, who look up to him,” Ramesh said.
Dhankhar’s resignation, coming on the very first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, has left both political circles and the public speculating about what might truly be behind his sudden exit.