Vice Presidential Election Set for September 9 Following Dhankhar’s Resignation

In a swift move to fill the constitutional vacuum, the Election Commission has officially scheduled the Vice Presidential election for September 9, 2025. This announcement comes in the wake of Jagdeep Dhankhar’s unexpected resignation on July 21, citing health concerns.

The formal notification for the election will be issued on August 7. Nomination papers must be submitted by August 21, with scrutiny scheduled for August 22. Candidates may withdraw their nominations until August 25.

Polling will take place in Room No. F-101, Vasudha, First Floor, Parliament House, New Delhi, between 10 AM and 5 PM. The results will be declared the same day.

The electoral college comprises 782 members—543 from the Lok Sabha and 239 from the Rajya Sabha, accounting for current vacancies. Voting will be conducted via secret ballot, using a single transferable vote system.

To qualify, candidates must be Indian citizens, at least 35 years old, and eligible for election to the Rajya Sabha. They must not hold any office of profit under the government.

The resignation of Dhankhar, who had nearly two years left in his term, has triggered speculation across political circles. His exit followed closely after he presided over a contentious Rajya Sabha session.

The ruling NDA coalition currently holds a numerical advantage in both Houses, positioning its nominee favorably in the upcoming poll.

The Election Commission has appointed the Rajya Sabha Secretary General as the Returning Officer, supported by two Assistant Returning Officers. Strict guidelines have been issued to ensure secrecy and procedural integrity.

This election marks a pivotal moment in India’s parliamentary calendar, as the nation prepares to elect its second-highest constitutional authority.