The first day of Parliament’s monsoon session unfolded as expected—chaotic and politically charged. While the government faced its routine opposition-led barrage inside the two Houses, it was a development later in the evening that truly shook the day: Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar stepped down unexpectedly, catching many across the political spectrum off guard.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the media outside Parliament, calling for consensus and prioritisation of national interests. Inside, it was business as usual—disruptions, walkouts, and accusations flew thick and fast.

Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, alleged a clampdown on his right to speak, accusing the ruling party of silencing opposition voices while giving ministers the floor.

The day's agenda included significant issues like the proposed impeachment of Justice Yashwant Varma and discussions surrounding Operation Sindoor and Bihar’s electoral roll revision.

Despite the routine parliamentary theatrics, what no one anticipated was the political tremor that came just before 10 PM—Vice-President Dhankhar’s resignation.

Shockwaves from Rajya Sabha to Rashtrapati Bhavan

Dhankhar, 74, who took office in August 2022, cited health concerns in his resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu. However, many in the Opposition and within political circles hinted at deeper reasons behind the abrupt decision.

Opposition leaders observed that Dhankhar had been fully active throughout the day—chairing meetings, interacting with MPs, and showing no signs of ill health. Jairam Ramesh, senior Congress MP, called the resignation “inexplicable” and suggested there was clearly more beneath the surface.

Dhankhar had been preparing to preside over crucial discussions and was reportedly gearing up to make significant announcements on judicial matters the following day. His full schedule included meetings with parliamentary leaders and a reconvened Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting in the evening.

Flashpoint: Justice Varma and a Motion in Parliament

One of the most sensitive matters of the day was the initiation of impeachment proceedings against Justice Yashwant Varma of the Allahabad High Court, in connection with a cash-at-home controversy.

Dhankhar acknowledged a motion from over 50 Rajya Sabha MPs, all from the Opposition, seeking the judge’s removal. Law Minister Arjun Meghwal confirmed that a similar motion was also submitted in the Lok Sabha, with broader bipartisan support. Dhankhar then directed officials to begin formal procedures under the Judges (Inquiry) Act.

Some speculate that Dhankhar’s swift action—without aligning with the government—may have sparked concern within the ruling camp, which is wary of appearing confrontational towards the judiciary at this point. A similar urgency shown by a lawyer in the Supreme Court regarding the same issue was turned down by the Chief Justice, indicating judicial sensitivity.

Signals of Discontent in the Ruling Party

Notably, Dhankhar’s day included tense exchanges in the Rajya Sabha. During a heated debate on Operation Sindoor, BJP leader JP Nadda intervened firmly while Dhankhar was presiding—allegedly saying that only his remarks should be on record. While Nadda later clarified that his comments were aimed at Opposition members, Congress leaders interpreted it as disrespect to the Chair.

Lok Sabha MP Pappu Yadav suggested that Dhankhar’s impartial conduct may not have been well received by some within his own camp, and the lack of support possibly led to his decision to step down.

Adding to the mystery was the noticeable absence of Nadda and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju from the second BAC meeting later that afternoon, despite having attended the first session earlier in the day. Their non-appearance, Opposition members claim, may have added to Dhankhar’s growing sense of alienation.

A Timeline that Raises Questions

At 3.53 PM on Monday, the Vice-President’s official social media handle posted about his upcoming visit to Jaipur on July 23—suggesting there were no plans to resign even hours before he eventually did.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh also revealed that he spoke to Dhankhar at 7.30 PM, and the Vice-President simply mentioned he was with family discussing health matters and would talk the next day.

Within just two hours of that call, Dhankhar had submitted his resignation.

The Underlying Tensions

Dhankhar has long been an outspoken voice on judicial accountability and reforms. Some believe he viewed the Justice Varma case as an opportunity to act on his convictions. But by moving decisively—perhaps too decisively—he may have overstepped in the eyes of the ruling party, which is treading carefully with the judiciary amid other sensitive legal battles.

Insiders suggest that the Vice-President’s actions, which seemed to align more with the Opposition’s tone on Justice Varma, were not in sync with the Centre’s approach. Government sources claimed Dhankhar acted without consulting them.

Though Dhankhar’s resignation letter emphasized medical reasons, the political context and timing have given rise to multiple theories. The real reasons, however, remain cloaked in speculation, even as the incident marks an extraordinary moment in recent parliamentary history.