Is Nitish Kumar in Contention for Vice President Post After Jagdeep Dhankhar’s Resignation? Complete Political Analysis
Introduction: A New Chapter in Indian Politics
The Indian political landscape witnessed a significant development on July 21, 2025, when Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar submitted his resignation citing health reasons. This unexpected move has opened up the second-highest constitutional position in the country, sparking intense speculation about potential successors. Among the names being discussed, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar emerges as a prominent candidate, given his extensive political experience and current position within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
Jagdeep Dhankhar’s Resignation: The Catalyst for Change
Jagdeep Dhankhar’s decision to step down from his position as the 14th Vice President of India has created a constitutional vacancy that requires immediate attention. In his resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu, Dhankhar stated that he was resigning “to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice” in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution. The 74-year-old leader, who assumed office in August 2022, had previously indicated his intention to serve until August 2027, making this mid-term resignation unexpected.
The timing of Dhankhar’s resignation is particularly significant as it comes during a politically active period, with various state elections on the horizon and the central government focusing on key policy implementations. This development necessitates a swift election process for the new Vice President, involving members of both houses of Parliament.
Nitish Kumar: Political Profile and Current Standing
The Bihar Strongman’s Journey
Nitish Kumar, currently serving as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the ninth time in 24 years, represents one of India’s most experienced regional leaders. His political journey spans decades, marked by strategic alliance changes and consistent electoral success in Bihar. Having recently rejoined the BJP-led NDA alliance in January 2025 after breaking away from the Mahagathbandhan (comprising RJD and Congress), Kumar’s current political positioning within the ruling coalition at the center makes him a viable candidate for higher constitutional offices.
Administrative Experience and Credentials
Kumar’s administrative credentials are substantial, having governed Bihar through various developmental phases. His tenure has witnessed significant infrastructure improvements, law and order restoration, and social welfare initiatives. This extensive administrative experience, combined with his understanding of federal structure and inter-state relations, positions him favorably for a constitutional role like the Vice Presidency.
Alliance Politics and Strategic Positioning
The timing of Kumar’s recent alliance switch to NDA works in his favor regarding Vice Presidential candidacy considerations. His ability to bring Bihar’s political weight to the NDA fold strengthens the coalition’s eastern Indian presence, a factor that could influence candidate selection for national positions.
Vice Presidential Election Process and Nitish Kumar’s Prospects
Constitutional Framework for Election
The Vice President of India is elected by an electoral college consisting of members of both Houses of Parliament – the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The election follows a proportional representation system with a single transferable vote, requiring candidates to secure a majority of valid votes cast. This process typically takes place within six months of a vacancy, though expedited timelines are possible for mid-term resignations.
Political Arithmetic and NDA Advantage
The current political arithmetic in Parliament favors the NDA coalition, which holds a comfortable majority in the Lok Sabha and significant presence in the Rajya Sabha. This numerical advantage means that any candidate endorsed by the NDA leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President J.P. Nadda, would likely secure victory in the Vice Presidential election.
Regional Representation Considerations
One factor that could work in Kumar’s favor is the question of regional representation. The Vice Presidency has traditionally sought to balance regional considerations, and Kumar’s candidacy would strengthen representation from eastern India, particularly Bihar, which remains politically significant due to its substantial parliamentary representation.
Strategic Analysis: Why Nitish Kumar Could Be Considered
Experience in Constitutional Positions
Kumar’s extensive experience in state governance provides him with deep understanding of constitutional mechanisms, federal relations, and legislative procedures. As Vice President, who also serves as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, these skills would be directly relevant to managing upper house proceedings and maintaining parliamentary decorum.
Cross-Party Relationships
Despite his history of alliance changes, Kumar maintains working relationships across party lines, a quality essential for the Vice Presidential role. His ability to work with different political formations could prove valuable in managing Rajya Sabha proceedings, where constructive opposition engagement is crucial for legislative effectiveness.
Age and Health Considerations
At his current age, Kumar represents a generation of politicians with substantial experience while still maintaining the energy required for constitutional responsibilities. This demographic positioning could be favorable compared to older candidates who might face health-related concerns similar to those cited by Dhankhar.
Potential Challenges and Alternative Candidates
Internal NDA Dynamics
While Kumar’s NDA membership supports his candidacy, internal coalition dynamics could influence final selection. Other senior leaders within BJP and alliance partners might also be considered, depending on various political calculations and strategic considerations.
Opposition Response and Cross-Voting Possibilities
The opposition’s response to Kumar’s potential candidacy would likely depend on their assessment of his political trajectory and past relationships. His history of alliance changes might be viewed differently by various opposition parties, potentially affecting cross-voting patterns.
Alternative Candidacies from Different Backgrounds
The selection process might also consider candidates from different professional backgrounds – judiciary, academia, or civil services – as has been traditional for the Vice Presidential position. Such alternatives could influence Kumar’s prospects depending on the government’s strategic preferences.
Impact on Bihar Politics and Future Implications
Succession Planning in Bihar
Should Kumar be elevated to the Vice Presidential position, it would necessitate significant political reorganization in Bihar. The question of succession within the NDA alliance in Bihar would become immediate, with implications for upcoming state elections and coalition stability.
Long-term Political Career Trajectory
For Kumar personally, the Vice Presidential position could represent a natural progression in his political career, providing a national platform while maintaining his political relevance beyond active state politics. This transition could also position him for future roles within the national political framework.
Public Opinion and Media Speculation
Regional Support Base
Kumar’s strong support base in Bihar and parts of eastern India could translate into broader regional backing for his Vice Presidential candidacy. This grassroots support, combined with his recognition factor across India, strengthens his political credentials for the position.
Media Coverage and Political Commentary
Political commentators and media analysis have begun discussing Kumar’s potential candidacy, with various perspectives on his suitability and chances. This media attention itself indicates the seriousness with which his candidacy is being considered within political circles.
Constitutional Role and Responsibilities Analysis
Vice Presidential Functions
The Vice President’s primary constitutional role involves chairing Rajya Sabha sessions and acting as President during temporary absences. Kumar’s legislative experience and understanding of parliamentary procedures position him well for these responsibilities.
Ceremonial and Protocol Duties
The position also involves various ceremonial functions and protocol responsibilities, requiring dignity, gravitas, and diplomatic skills – qualities that Kumar has demonstrated throughout his political career.
Economic and Development Perspective
Development Experience
Kumar’s experience in managing Bihar’s development agenda, including infrastructure projects, social welfare schemes, and economic initiatives, provides him with practical understanding of national development challenges that inform Vice Presidential perspectives on policy matters.
Federal Relations Expertise
His extensive experience in center-state relations, having worked with multiple central governments across party lines, offers valuable insights for the Vice Presidential role in maintaining federal balance and constitutional propriety.
International Relations and Diplomatic Considerations
Experience with International Delegations
As Bihar Chief Minister, Kumar has interacted with various international delegations, development organizations, and diplomatic missions, providing him with exposure to international affairs that could complement the Vice Presidential role’s diplomatic aspects.
Understanding of Global Development Paradigms
His involvement in various international development forums and partnerships offers perspective on global governance models that could inform his approach to constitutional responsibilities.
Conclusion: Assessing the Probability
The question of Nitish Kumar’s candidacy for Vice President following Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation involves multiple political, constitutional, and strategic considerations. His extensive administrative experience, current position within the NDA alliance, and understanding of constitutional mechanisms make him a credible candidate for the position.
However, the final decision will depend on various factors including internal NDA consultations, strategic political considerations, and the broader context of upcoming electoral cycles. Kumar’s ability to bring regional balance, his legislative experience, and his proven administrative capabilities certainly place him among the potential candidates being considered for this crucial constitutional position.
The coming weeks will likely see increased political activity around the Vice Presidential election, with various names being discussed and evaluated. Nitish Kumar’s candidacy represents not just a personal political progression but also reflects the evolving dynamics of Indian federal politics and regional representation in national constitutional offices.
As the election process unfolds, political observers will closely monitor developments, alliance dynamics, and strategic communications that could provide clearer indications of candidate selection and electoral outcomes. The ultimate choice will reflect not only individual merits but also broader political strategies and constitutional considerations that guide such high-level appointments in Indian democracy.
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