Who Will Succeed Jagdeep Dhankhar? Names Emerge for Next Vice President of India

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s sudden resignation, citing health reasons, has left the second-highest constitutional office in the country vacant. According to the Constitution, an election to fill the position must be held “as soon as possible.” While the official poll notification is yet to be issued, speculation is already rife over who could step into Dhankhar’s shoes.

Here’s a look at some of the names — in no particular order of likelihood — that are currently doing the rounds in political circles.

Nitish Kumar

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar may seem like an unlikely contender, but speculation around his possible elevation refuses to fade. Several voices, including NDA ally Upendra Kushwaha, have hinted that Kumar could make way for a generational shift in Bihar’s leadership. Adding to the buzz, Union Minister Chirag Paswan recently announced plans to contest the upcoming Bihar election — a move seen by some as laying the groundwork for political transition. Could the Vice President’s post be a dignified exit for one of India’s longest-serving CMs?

V.K. Saxena (67)

The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, V.K. Saxena, is also being discussed as a potential candidate for a “bigger constitutional role.” A former corporate executive, Saxena has been a prominent figure in Delhi’s political landscape, often clashing with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over administrative control. From appointments to infrastructure and the functioning of the Delhi Jal Board, Saxena’s assertive approach has made headlines — and some say, helped shape public perception during the Centre-AAP standoff. His name is seen as that of a trusted and loyal administrator.

Manoj Sinha (66)

The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, is nearing the end of his five-year tenure on August 6, aligning perfectly with the timeline for a potential shift to national office. A veteran BJP leader from Uttar Pradesh and former Minister of State for Railways, Sinha is credited with bringing a measure of stability to Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370. However, his tenure ends on a tragic note, as he faces questions over the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a pony handler. Despite the setback, his name remains firmly in the mix.

While the final decision will rest with the government and political consensus, these emerging names reflect the strategic considerations — from administrative experience to political legacy — that may shape the next Vice President of India.

Let me know if you’d like a tighter version for a news bulletin or a more analytical piece exploring what each choice signals politically.