Following Jagdeep Dhankhar’s sudden resignation as Vice President of India, the NDA is now racing to pick his successor—with big names already in the mix.
Dhankhar Steps Down, PM Modi and JP Nadda Take Charge
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from office on July 21, 2025, citing health reasons. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) met on August 7 and unanimously empowered Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief JP Nadda to choose the ruling coalition’s nominee.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju made the announcement after a high-level meeting at the Parliament complex, which was attended by leaders from across NDA, including Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, and key allies from JD(U), Shiv Sena (Shinde), TDP, and LJP (Ram Vilas).
Speculation Swirls Over Successor
The resignation has triggered widespread speculation about who will become the next Vice President of India. Several names—both seasoned politicians and current officeholders—are now being discussed as likely contenders.
Nitish Kumar: The Surprise Contender?
Among the most talked-about names is Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, head of NDA ally JD(U). Though seen as an unlikely candidate at first, reports suggest Kumar might step down to make way for younger leadership in Bihar.
His potential exit aligns with Chirag Paswan’s recent declaration to lead the NDA’s charge in the upcoming Bihar elections—fueling theories that Kumar might be headed for a larger constitutional role.
Harivansh Singh: A Trusted Parliamentary Face
Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Singh, also from JD(U), is another strong contender. A seasoned parliamentarian and known for his bipartisan conduct, Harivansh brings legislative experience and trust.
Serving in the Upper House since 2020, he is widely respected across party lines and is seen as someone who could smoothly handle the Vice President’s dual role as Rajya Sabha Chairperson.
Ram Nath Thakur: A Backward Class Voice
There is also buzz about choosing a candidate from India’s backward or extremely backward classes. In that context, Ram Nath Thakur, son of former Bihar CM and Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur, is gaining attention.
Currently Minister of State for Agriculture, Thakur belongs to the Nai (barber) caste—classified as “ati-pichhara” or extremely backward. His nomination would signal inclusion and electoral outreach, especially ahead of Bihar polls.
VK Saxena: Delhi LG With Political Clout
Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena is also being mentioned as a dark horse. Saxena’s assertive handling of Delhi’s administration, particularly in curbing AAP-led governance decisions, made him a trusted enforcer of Centre’s policies in the capital.
His corporate background and recent high-profile political role make him a potential choice—especially if NDA prefers someone with administrative sharpness over electoral clout.
Manoj Sinha: From J&K to National Spotlight?
With his term as Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir ending on August 6, Manoj Sinha also finds himself in VP race conversations.
He is credited with maintaining relative stability in J&K after the abrogation of Article 370. However, his tenure also saw the tragic Pahalgam terror attack in April, which claimed 26 lives. That mixed record may affect his chances, but his seniority and roots in Uttar Pradesh politics still make him a possibility.
What BJP Might Be Thinking
According to insiders cited in PTI reports, the BJP is evaluating a range of options—governors, senior ministers, parliamentary veterans, and community representatives. Party strategists may prefer a candidate who brings electoral value and public respect without triggering intra-NDA friction.
The focus, say sources, is on a name that complements the Modi government’s image of inclusivity, strength, and administrative discipline.
Key Factors Driving NDA’s Choice
- Political stability: A non-controversial figure who can unify the Rajya Sabha.
- Social representation: Someone from OBC, EBC, or regional minority groups.
- Administrative experience: Proven record in handling governance or legislative affairs.
- Electoral calculus: Impact on 2025 Bihar and 2026 state elections.
Opposition Yet to Reveal Its Strategy
While NDA narrows down its choice, the Opposition INDIA bloc has not officially named a VP candidate. But with the possibility of a joint Opposition pick, NDA’s decision will be strategic and swift.
When Will We Know?
The Election Commission is expected to announce the schedule soon. Sources indicate the Vice Presidential election will likely take place in early September.
Until then, the political guessing game continues—and so does the intense backroom negotiation within the NDA.
