Opposition parties have extended an invitation to former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar for a farewell dinner following his unexpected resignation on July 21, 2025, sources revealed. The move comes amid claims that Dhankhar, 74, was denied a traditional farewell speech in the Rajya Sabha, prompting the opposition to organize a send-off to honor his tenure.

Dhankhar’s resignation, officially attributed to health concerns, has fueled speculation of deeper political motives. The controversy began when Dhankhar, as Rajya Sabha Chairman, accepted a motion from 63 opposition MPs to remove High Court Justice Yashwant Varma, linked to a corruption probe after cash was found at his residence. This decision clashed with the government’s plan to lead a similar motion in the Lok Sabha, reportedly causing friction with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Sources indicate that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was briefed immediately, leading to a high-level meeting with senior ministers. BJP MPs were mobilized to sign a counter-motion, and Dhankhar resigned shortly after. Congress leaders, including Jairam Ramesh, have called the resignation “inexplicable,” alleging it was forced due to the government’s displeasure. The opposition raised the issue of a farewell speech at the Rajya Sabha’s Business Advisory Committee, highlighting the lack of a formal send-off as a sign of disrespect.

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Despite the invitation, sources suggest Dhankhar is unlikely to attend the dinner, preferring to maintain the neutrality of his former office. The Election Commission has appointed Rajya Sabha Secretary General PC Mody as the returning officer for the upcoming vice-presidential election, with no fixed timeline mandated by Article 68(2) of the Constitution, which requires the election to occur “as soon as possible.”

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