Overview

• On August 9, Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal told reporters that Jagdeep Dhankhar has neither appeared at his official residence nor answered calls since resigning on July 21.
• Sibal called on Amit Shah to issue a public statement on Dhankhar’s current location and medical condition, even suggesting a habeas corpus petition if answers are not forthcoming.
• Opposition leaders contend Dhankhar was forced to step down, although his resignation letter cites health reasons following angioplasty at AIIMS Delhi.
• The lack of an official update has intensified calls for transparency, with parties stressing the need to verify Dhankhar’s well-being ahead of the vote.
• The Election Commission has scheduled the vice-presidential poll for September 9 after President Murmu accepted Dhankhar’s resignation and is finalizing the electoral college list.