Jagdeep Dhankhar resigns as Vice President, citing health concerns
New Delhi: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from office on Monday, citing health concerns. In a letter addressed to the President, Dhankhar said he was stepping down 'to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice,' effective immediately as per Article 67(a) of the Constitution.
Dhankhar expressed gratitude to the President for her 'unwavering support and the soothing, wonderful working relationship' during his tenure in his letter.
He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Council of Ministers, terming the PM's support 'invaluable' and saying he had 'learned much' during his time in office.
'I express my deep gratitude to the Hon'ble Prime Minister and the esteemed Council of Ministers. (The) Prime Minister's cooperation and support have been invaluable, and I have learned much during my time in office,' he wrote.
Dhankhar said the 'warmth, trust, and affection I have received from all the Hon'ble Members of Parliament would ever be cherished and embedded in my memory. I am deeply thankful for the invaluable experiences and insights I have gained as Vice President in our great democracy'.
Terming it a 'privilege' and 'satisfaction' to witness and partake in India's remarkable economic progress and unprecedented exponential development during this significant period, he said, 'Serving in this transformative era of our nation's history has been a true honour. As I leave this esteemed office, I am filled with pride in Bharat's global rise and phenomenal achievements and hold unwavering confidence in her brilliant future.'
Earlier in the day, Dhankhar, who is the ex-officio Rajya Sabha Chairman, had called on all political parties to uphold mutual respect and avoid 'constant acrimony', warning that a thriving democracy cannot function amid relentless hostility.
In his opening remarks as Rajya Sabha proceedings began Monday, he had said that India's historical strength lies in discourse, dialogue, and deliberation, which should guide Parliament.
(Edited by Tony Rai)
Also Read: Dhankhar invokes Savarkar's realism, backs national interest as India's international diplomacy compass
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