NEW DELHI [India], July 23: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially commenced the preliminary groundwork for the election to the office of the Vice-President of India. This urgent action follows the unexpected resignation of incumbent Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, which has left the crucial constitutional post vacant nearly two years ahead of its scheduled end of term.
In an official press note released by the ECI, it was confirmed that the comprehensive schedule for the Vice-Presidential election will be unveiled shortly, once all necessary preparatory formalities are completed.
The ECI has already initiated several key activities to ensure a smooth and timely electoral process. These include the meticulous preparation of the Electoral College, which is uniquely comprised of both elected and nominated members of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) and Lok Sabha (House of the People). Additionally, the finalization of the Returning Officer and Assistant Returning Officers, crucial for overseeing the election, is underway. The Commission is also in the process of preparing and disseminating detailed background material, drawing insights from all previous Vice-Presidential Elections, to provide comprehensive information to all stakeholders.
The official press note explicitly states, “The MHA vide its Gazette Notification S.O.3354(E) dated July 22, 2025, has notified the resignation of Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, Vice President of India. The Election Commission of India, under Article 324, is mandated to conduct the election to the office of the Vice President of India. The election to the office of the Vice President of India is governed by The Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952 and the rules made thereunder, namely The Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Rules, 1974.”
It further elaborates, “Accordingly, the Election Commission of India has already started the preparations relating to the Vice-Presidential Elections, 2025. On completion of the preparatory activities, the announcement of the Election Schedule to the office of the Vice-President of India will follow as soon as possible.”
The press note reiterated the major pre-announcement activities that have already begun: “(i) Preparation of Electoral College which consists of elected as well as nominated members of Rajya Sabha as well as Lok Sabha; (ii) Finalisation of Returning Officer/ Assistant Returning Officer(s); and (iii) Preparation and dissemination of Background Material on all the previous Vice-Presidential Elections.”
The vacancy in the Chair of the Vice-President arose after Jagdeep Dhankhar tendered his sudden resignation on Monday evening, citing personal health reasons. Dhankhar, who assumed office in August 2022, was set to complete his five-year term in August 2027. His resignation thus comes unexpectedly, triggering an expedited election process.
In his resignation letter addressed to President Droupadi Murmu, Dhankhar stated, “To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the constitution.” He also conveyed his “deepest gratitude” to the President for her “unwavering support and the soothing, wonderful working relationship” they maintained during his tenure.
Dhankhar also extended his profound appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Council of Ministers, remarking, “Prime Minister’s cooperation and support have been invaluable, and I have learned much during my time in office.”
Under Article 66 of the Indian Constitution, the Vice-President is elected by an electoral college comprising members of both Houses of Parliament, through a system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote, with voting by secret ballot. The newly elected Vice-President will serve a full five-year term from the date they assume office.