Who’s Next in Line After Jagdeep Dhankhar? The VP Race Heats Up
So Jagdeep Dhankhar’s sudden resignation as Vice President has everyone talking. You know how it is in Indian politics—one move sets off a hundred rumors. The big question isn’t just who’ll get the job, but what this means for the BJP’s game plan heading into 2024. Let’s break it down.
Dhankhar’s Exit: More Than Meets the Eye
Here’s the thing about Dhankhar—love him or hate him, the man knew how to make headlines. Former West Bengal Governor, sharp legal mind, never shied away from a debate. His resignation? Classic political chess move. BJP insiders are whispering about “strategic repositioning,” but honestly, your guess is as good as mine. One day he’s chairing Rajya Sabha sessions, next day—poof—gone.
Why the VP Job Actually Matters
Most people think it’s just a fancy title, right? Wrong. Imagine this: President can’t perform duties? VP steps in. Rajya Sabha deadlock? VP casts the deciding vote. It’s like being the substitute teacher who might suddenly become principal. The election process itself is straight out of a political thriller—all MPs voting secretly, backroom deals, the works.
The Contenders: Who’s in the Running?
Now for the fun part. The BJP’s got options, but none are perfect:
1. The Safe Bets
Names like Ravi Shankar Prasad keep popping up. Experienced? Check. Party loyalist? Double check. But here’s the catch—Bihar allies are grumbling about “Delhi ignoring regional voices.” Can’t blame them, really.
2. The Bihar Factor
Speaking of Bihar—JD(U) is playing hardball. They want someone like Sushil Modi, arguing “We delivered seats, now deliver the VP.” Fair point. But caste math could turn this into a headache faster than you can say “coalition dharma.”
3. Wild Cards
Watch out for dark horses—some retired IAS officer or maybe even a surprise opposition pick. Politics these days? Never boring.
What This Really Means for 2024
Let me put it this way: this VP election is Modi-Shah’s first big test ahead of the general elections. Choose wrong, and Bihar allies might get restless. Choose smart? Could cement the NDA’s national narrative. Meanwhile, opposition parties are circling like vultures, looking for any sign of weakness.
How These Elections Usually Go
History shows two patterns: either consensus candidates (remember Hamid Ansari?) or political heavyweights using it as a retirement package. This time feels different though—too much at stake, too close to 2024.
What Happens Next?
Official timeline says election within six months. My money’s on July-August window—perfect timing to dominate news cycles before state elections. Parliament session dates will tell us more.
The Bottom Line
This isn’t just about filling a chair in Rajya Sabha. It’s about signals—to allies, to opponents, to voters. Will BJP play it safe or shake things up? Either way, grab your popcorn. Things are about to get interesting.
FAQs (Because Everyone’s Asking)
Why did Dhankhar really quit?
Your guess is as good as ours. “Personal reasons” in politics usually means “wait for the next move.”
How’s the VP elected?
All MPs vote secretly. Think school captain elections, but with more drama.
Who’s leading the race?
Prasad looks strong, but Bihar’s Sushil Modi is the dark horse. Don’t rule out a last-minute surprise though.
Why does Bihar matter so much?
Simple math—no Bihar, no NDA majority in 2024. Allies know their leverage.
When will we know?
Probably by August unless someone throws a wrench in the works. Which, let’s be honest, always happens.
Source: Navbharat Times – Default