Ex Vice President Dhankhar was “forced to quit” over farmer stand, alleges Jairam Ramesh

The Congress on Saturday escalated its attack on the Centre, with senior leader Jairam Ramesh alleging that former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar was “forced to resign” because the Modi government disapproved of his vocal support for farmers.

In a post on X, Ramesh claimed that Dhankhar, who stepped down on July 21, 2025, did not leave office voluntarily. He also pointed out that no formal farewell ceremony has been held for Dhankhar, describing it as reflective of the government’s “true colours.” The Congress leader further accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of betraying the interests of lakhs of farmers by agreeing to the India-US trade deal.

At the time of his resignation, Dhankhar had cited “personal reasons” and the need to attend to health and family matters, without referring to any political differences. His resignation letter was submitted to the President of India in accordance with constitutional provisions. Under Article 67 of the Constitution, the Vice President may resign by writing to the President, and the resignation takes effect upon acceptance.

While some opposition parties have echoed the Congress demand for greater transparency around the resignation, others have refrained from attributing political motives. Farmer groups, already critical of provisions they believe could allow greater access to American agricultural products, have sought clarity on how the trade deal would affect minimum support prices and domestic procurement systems.

The Congress has been accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party led government of ignoring the interests of farmers in the India-US trade deal by allowing American agricultural products into the Indian market.