05 March,2026 01:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Jagdeep Dhankhar. File Photo
The Shiv Sena (UBT) on Thursday raised fresh questions over the abrupt resignation of former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, saying recent remarks by him contradict the official explanation offered at the time of his exit. The party said that Dhankhar's reappearance in public life and his latest statements have intensified speculation about the circumstances surrounding his resignation, reported news agency IANS.
In an editorial published in its party mouthpiece Saamana, the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction argued that the episode reflected a broader trend of undermining constitutional institutions and senior constitutional posts in the country.
The editorial referred to Dhankhar's recent speech in Churu in Rajasthan, where he reportedly stated that he had not resigned due to health reasons, contradicting the narrative earlier presented by the government. The remarks came after Dhankhar had largely remained out of the public spotlight since stepping down from office last year, reported IANS.
According to the editorial, Dhankhar appeared to be in good health during the event and directly rejected the claim that medical reasons prompted his resignation.
Quoting Dhankhar, the editorial stated: "A healthy body is the first source of happiness. I have never neglected my health. While resigning, I never said that I was ill," reported IANS.
The party suggested that this statement raises serious questions about the real circumstances behind his resignation and whether the official explanation was accurate.
The editorial further speculated that Dhankhar's resignation may have occurred under pressure. It alleged that the former Vice President's private interactions with opposition leaders might have triggered political tensions within the ruling establishment.
According to the article, reports of "explosive exchanges" from those meetings allegedly reached Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The editorial claimed that following these developments, a decision was taken that Dhankhar needed "immediate rest," implying that the health explanation may have been used as a justification for his departure, reported IANS.
The publication also criticised what it described as a pattern of appointing individuals to high constitutional positions who are expected to remain compliant.
The editorial argued that several ministers continue to hold office despite health concerns or controversies, while Dhankhar was removed suddenly. It suggested that this reflects double standards in how accountability is applied within the government, reported IANS.
The article also referenced court rulings and ongoing controversies, alleging that key institutions were under pressure and that political considerations were influencing decisions regarding leadership positions.
Among other references, the editorial mentioned the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with investigations by the Central Bureau of Investigation, claiming such developments indicate institutional strain.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) editorial concluded by saying that Dhankhar's return to public appearances was a positive development but added that the country deserves a fuller explanation of what transpired at the time of his resignation, reported IANS.
It urged the former Vice President to provide details about his health during the months following his resignation and to shed light on events that occurred behind the scenes on July 25 last year, when he stepped down.
According to the editorial, Dhankhar should explain what happened in Parliament and within his office on the day he resigned, suggesting that the truth about the episode may still be unknown to the public.
(With inputs from IANS)
