Rajya Sabha MP and former Union Law Minister Kapil Sibal raised alarm over the mysterious disappearance of former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, who resigned abruptly on July 21, 2025, citing health reasons. In a press conference, Sibal referenced the Oscar-nominated film "Laapataa Ladies," quipping, "I’ve heard of 'Laapataa Ladies,' but never a 'laapataa Vice President,'" highlighting the unprecedented nature of Dhankhar’s absence from public view.

Dhankhar, 74, stepped down on the first day of the Monsoon session of Parliament, a move that shocked political circles. His resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu cited medical reasons, following a recent angioplasty at AIIMS, Delhi. However, opposition leaders, including Sibal, have questioned whether the resignation was forced, pointing to Dhankhar’s reported tensions with the government.

Sibal urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to clarify Dhankhar’s whereabouts, emphasizing the need for transparency in a democratic nation. "I tried contacting him, and his secretary said he was resting, but no one has heard from him since," Sibal said. "Even his family and friends are silent. Should we file a habeas corpus?" He expressed personal concern, noting his long-standing professional relationship with Dhankhar, a fellow lawyer.

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In a post on X, Sibal wrote, "Can we be informed: Where is he? Is he safe? Why is he incommunicado? Amit Shah ji should know!" He stressed that the Home Ministry, with its vast resources, must provide answers, especially given Dhankhar’s critical health condition.

The absence of India’s former Vice President, who also served as Rajya Sabha Chairman, has sparked widespread speculation. Dhankhar’s tenure, which began in August 2022 and was set to continue until 2027, was marked by frequent clashes with the opposition, including an unprecedented impeachment motion against him, which was rejected by Deputy Chairman Harivansh.

Sibal highlighted the lack of precedent for such an event in India’s history, stating, "This has never happened before. India is a democracy; such matters should be public." With the vice-presidential election scheduled for September, he urged authorities to confirm Dhankhar’s well-being, suggesting the public deserves to know if he is receiving medical treatment or facing other challenges.

Opposition leaders have echoed Sibal’s concerns, with some alleging political motives behind Dhankhar’s exit. Unverified reports on X claim Dhankhar held secret meetings with opposition figures and pushed for discussions on Operation Sindoor, possibly contributing to his resignation. However, these claims remain inconclusive without official confirmation.

As the nation awaits clarity, Sibal’s call for transparency underscores the gravity of a former Vice President’s unexplained absence, raising questions about democratic accountability and the government’s silence.

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