Jagdeep Dhankhar, who resigned as Vice President of India in July citing health problems, has returned to public view after almost two months of silence. On September 12, 2025, he attended the swearing-in ceremony of his successor, CP Radhakrishnan, at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
This appearance is important because it is the first time Dhankhar has been seen in public since his sudden resignation. His decision to step down had raised many questions about his health and created speculation about whether there were deeper reasons behind his exit. By choosing the oath-taking of the new Vice President as the occasion to step back into the public eye, Dhankhar has made a quiet yet strong statement.
A Front-Row Presence
Dhankhar arrived with his wife Sudesh Dhankhar and was seated in the front row among other dignitaries. Former vice presidents M. Venkaiah Naidu and Hamid Ansari were also present, highlighting the tradition of inviting all living former vice presidents to the swearing-in of a new one. Throughout the ceremony, Dhankhar was seen smiling, greeting leaders warmly, and exchanging words with Naidu. He also interacted with President Droupadi Murmu, projecting an image of calm and dignity.
For many observers, these simple gestures carried meaning. After weeks of uncertainty, his composed presence suggested that he was recovering and stable. The fact that he attended such a high-profile event showed that he wished to be seen, both by the political establishment and the public.
What His Appearance Signals
Dhankhar’s presence carries several signals. First, it suggests that he is well enough to take part in public life, at least in ceremonial roles. Second, it ends weeks of speculation about his health and whereabouts. Political leaders in India are often judged not only by their words but also by their visibility. In that sense, just appearing at Rashtrapati Bhavan sent a message of reassurance.
Third, his presence underlined respect for tradition and protocol. Even after stepping down, Dhankhar continues to uphold the dignity of the office by participating in such events. And finally, the optics of the moment remind everyone that although he no longer holds the position, he remains a figure within India’s political fabric.
The Unanswered Questions
However, his appearance does not answer everything. It is still unclear whether Dhankhar will return to a more active public role or whether this was a symbolic gesture of respect for the institution. The details of his health remain private, and it is unknown how visible he will be in the months to come.
For political analysts and the wider public, Dhankhar’s re-emergence shows how leaders manage their image after leaving high office. His return to visibility closes one chapter of speculation while opening another: what role, if any, will he choose to play in the future?
