New Delhi, July 23: The sudden resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on health grounds has created a high-stakes vacuum in India’s constitutional hierarchy, triggering political buzz over who could occupy the country’s second-highest office next.
As per the Constitution, the Vice Presidential election must be held “as soon as possible,” though an official schedule is yet to be announced. In the absence of clarity, political corridors are abuzz with speculation, and several high-profile names are doing the rounds.
Here’s a look at some of the key contenders being talked about as possible successors to Dhankhar:
Nitish Kumar, 74
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s name has emerged from unexpected quarters, despite his longstanding ties to state politics. Though considered unlikely by some, the chatter hasn’t stopped. BJP ally and Union Minister Chirag Paswan recently declared his intent to contest the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, prompting fresh discussions about a leadership shift in the state. Some allies, including Upendra Kushwaha, have even hinted that Nitish should pass the baton to the next generation. A Vice Presidential role could offer Kumar a dignified national exit after over two decades in Bihar’s top job.
VK Saxena, 67
Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor and former corporate executive VK Saxena has been in the spotlight ever since his appointment in 2022. Known for his strained relationship with the AAP government, Saxena was often seen as a roadblock to Arvind Kejriwal’s administrative moves—from appointments to governance decisions involving the Delhi Jal Board. His assertive style and backing from the Centre have led to speculation that he could be elevated to a constitutional role at the national level.
Manoj Sinha, 66
The outgoing Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, is also being considered a strong contender. His five-year tenure ends on August 6, coinciding with the need for a fresh face in the Vice Presidential office. A seasoned BJP leader from Uttar Pradesh and a former Minister of State for Railways, Sinha is credited with bringing a measure of administrative stability to J&K after the abrogation of Article 370. However, the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, including tourists, may weigh on his record.
While no official word has been given, the coming days are likely to see heightened activity as the government prepares to announce the election date. The role of Vice President—who also serves as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha—is a key constitutional position, and the ruling NDA’s choice will carry both political and symbolic weight ahead of crucial legislative sessions and the 2029 general elections.
Until then, speculation continues to swirl.
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