In a development that has stirred political conversations across India, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor made a cryptic yet attention-grabbing comment regarding the potential successor to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, following the latter’s unexpected resignation. Tharoor’s statement — “The next Vice President will be…” — has set off a flurry of speculation, with political circles abuzz over who may be in the race for the constitutional post.
Jagdeep Dhankhar, who served as India’s 14th Vice President, stepped down earlier this week citing “personal reasons” in his formal letter to the President. While there is still no official word from the ruling party about the likely candidate, opposition leaders, commentators, and analysts are offering diverse theories.
Amidst this uncertainty, Shashi Tharoor’s carefully worded remark at a press briefing in New Delhi has added a new dimension to the unfolding narrative. While Tharoor did not name anyone directly, his emphasis on the need for a “dignified, scholarly, and constitutionally aware individual” has led many to interpret his comment as both a critique of the outgoing VP and a subtle campaign for an alternative choice.
Political vacuum and speculation intensify
Vice President Dhankhar’s resignation — which came as a surprise to many in the political establishment — has created an unexpected power vacuum in India’s second-highest constitutional office. Traditionally seen as a neutral and ceremonial figure, the Vice President also serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, making the role politically sensitive and strategically significant.
The Constitution mandates that an election to the Vice Presidency be held within six months of the office falling vacant. With the resignation now officially accepted, the Election Commission of India is expected to notify the schedule soon.
According to insiders, the likely date for the election could fall within the next 90 days to ensure a smooth transition and avoid procedural delays in parliamentary functioning.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July 26, 2025 | Jagdeep Dhankhar submits resignation as Vice President |
| July 27, 2025 | President accepts the resignation |
| July 28, 2025 | Political leaders begin informal talks on succession |
| July 29, 2025 | Shashi Tharoor comments on VP election dynamics |
| August (TBD) | Expected ECI notification for Vice Presidential polls |
| Within 6 months | Constitutionally mandated timeframe to fill vacancy |
Tharoor’s remarks: Subtle or strategic?
Shashi Tharoor, known for his articulate commentary and diplomatic undertones, used his interaction with the press to speak more broadly about the nature of India’s democratic institutions. Without naming names, he stated:
“India deserves a Vice President who upholds the constitutional ethos, fosters healthy parliamentary debates, and respects the diversity of our great republic. The next Vice President will be someone who restores dignity and calm in the Rajya Sabha.”
The statement, while non-specific, was interpreted by many political observers as a veiled critique of Dhankhar’s often confrontational style in Parliament and his perceived political leanings.
When asked whether he or someone from the Congress or INDIA bloc could be a candidate, Tharoor smiled and replied, “Let’s wait and see. Parliament needs more than just numbers. It needs vision.”
Who’s in the race?
Though no official nominations have been announced, several names from both the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc are doing the rounds. These include senior parliamentarians, governors, and even retired judges and civil servants.
Likely contenders being speculated:
| Name | Affiliation | Position | Chances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harivansh Narayan | NDA | Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha | High |
| Shashi Tharoor | Congress | MP, former Under-Secretary General, UN | Moderate |
| Ghulam Nabi Azad | Independent | Former Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition | Speculative |
| Kiran Bedi | Independent | Former Lt Governor of Puducherry | Moderate |
| Justice Kurian Joseph | None | Former Supreme Court judge | Dark Horse |
| Anand Sharma | Congress | Senior leader, Rajya Sabha veteran | Moderate |
While the ruling BJP-led NDA has the numbers to ensure their candidate’s victory, the opposition may still choose to field a symbolic nominee, potentially someone with wide public appeal or constitutional gravitas.
Constitutional implications and political maneuvering
As per Article 66 of the Indian Constitution, the Vice President is elected by the members of both Houses of Parliament via a secret ballot using a single transferable vote system. The current composition of Parliament gives the BJP a strong edge, with the party and its allies controlling more than 60% of the combined vote.
However, the symbolism of a well-respected opposition nominee can often shape public discourse and raise questions about democratic functioning — as was evident during the 2022 Presidential elections.
Political analysts also believe that the INDIA bloc could use this opportunity to test internal coordination and consensus ahead of future electoral battles.
Reactions from across the spectrum
Political parties across ideologies responded differently to Tharoor’s comments. While the Congress welcomed his remarks as a call for accountability and dignity, BJP leaders dismissed it as “optics” and “posturing.”
BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra said, “The Vice President’s office must not be politicized. The BJP will select a candidate who reflects the values of New India and respects the Constitution.”
Senior leaders from regional parties like TMC, DMK, and AAP maintained a wait-and-watch stance, although internal discussions have reportedly started over whom to support.
Public sentiment and parliamentary future
The role of the Vice President, though largely ceremonial, holds critical importance in times of political tension. The Rajya Sabha is often a battleground for contentious legislation, and the conduct of the Vice President as Chair can shape parliamentary harmony.
Public opinion on social media appears divided, with hashtags such as #VPResigns, #NextVicePresident, and #ShashiTharoor trending for several hours. Memes, predictions, and heated debates populated platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
Looking Ahead
As the Vice Presidential race gathers steam, all eyes will be on the Election Commission’s announcement. In the meantime, the opposition’s moves — particularly those of high-profile figures like Shashi Tharoor — will continue to drive speculation and political calculations.
The upcoming weeks are likely to witness intense backchannel negotiations, strategic alignments, and formal nominations that will set the stage for a crucial constitutional transition.
Disclaimer: This article is based on available political commentary and official statements at the time of publication. Developments around the Vice Presidential election are evolving, and final candidates or electoral procedures may be subject to change based on institutional decisions and constitutional mandates.
