Resignation caught staff off guard; MPs question abrupt move

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s decision to step down took his own staff by surprise. On Monday, they sent out press statements about his plans over the next few days — from business advisory committee meetings with floor leaders of various parties toa meeting with real estate developers in Rajasthan on Wednesday.

- Sunetra Choudhury

Ahead of the surprise announcement late in the evening, Dhankhar chaired three meetings, according to people aware of details — the floor leaders meeting at the beginning of the session and two rounds of meetings with the business advisory committee between noon and Ipm, to decide bills to be taken up for the session. There was nothing to suggest that he was on his way out, said two MPs who were part of the meetings. He also chaired the Rajya Sabha, where again, he was his usual self,