Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday dismissed speculation surrounding former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s sudden resignation, stating it was solely due to health concerns. Shah rejected the opposition’s claims that Dhankhar was under “house arrest” and urged people not to create unnecessary controversy.
“Dhankhar sahab’s resignation letter is clear in itself. He cited health reasons and expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, ministers, and government members for a fulfilling tenure,” Shah said in an interview with ANI.
Responding to opposition allegations of Dhankhar being forcibly silenced, Shah said, “Your interpretation of truth and lies should not depend on opposition claims. We shouldn’t make a fuss about this. Dhankhar held a constitutional post and discharged his duties as per the Constitution. He resigned for health reasons. There’s no need to deliberate further.”
Opposition leaders, however, raised doubts over the timing of the resignation. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh called it the first instance of a Vice President’s resignation being linked to what he termed as “silencing.” Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP of taking India “back to medieval times,” alleging that the government removes individuals at will and uses investigative agencies to target elected representatives.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal even suggested filing a habeas corpus petition, citing Dhankhar’s absence from public view.
The BJP has firmly denied these allegations, reiterating that Dhankhar stepped down voluntarily on health grounds. He resigned on July 21, the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, after submitting his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu. Dhankhar, who also served as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, said he wanted to prioritize his health and follow medical advice.
