Year On, Former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Yet to Get Official House

More than a year after stepping down as Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar is still awaiting an official government residence and continues to live at a private farmhouse in Delhi. Dhankhar resigned as Vice President on July 21, 2025, citing health reasons. He later vacated the official Vice President's residence and shifted to a farmhouse in Chhatarpur owned by Indian National Lok Dal leader Abhay Singh Chautala. His stay there was initially understood to be temporary while arrangements for government accommodation were being worked out.

The delay has continued despite reports that accommodation for the former Vice President had been identified. A Type-VIII government bungalow at 34, APJ Abdul Kalam Road in New Delhi was reportedly considered for Dhankhar after his resignation. However, the property required renovation, and the process of making it ready was expected to take some time.

Under the rules governing former Vice Presidents, Dhankhar is entitled to government accommodation after completing or leaving office. The rules provide for a rent-free government residence for life, subject to the applicable accommodation framework. If an appropriate government bungalow is not available, alternative arrangements can be made under the relevant provisions.

The status of Dhankhar's accommodation has remained unclear, with reports suggesting differences over whether a formal request for a residence was processed through the usual government channels. His continued stay at the Chhatarpur farmhouse has therefore attracted attention, particularly because more than a year has passed since he left the Vice President's residence.

Dhankhar's departure from office itself came unexpectedly. His resignation was announced during the Monsoon Session of Parliament in July 2025, when he cited health concerns and said he wanted to prioritise medical care. His term as Vice President had originally been scheduled to continue until 2027. The former Vice President's housing issue has since become an unusual administrative matter involving the government's accommodation system and the entitlements available to former constitutional officeholders. While a government residence was reportedly identified for him, there has been no clear public confirmation that he has ultimately been allotted and moved into an official house. Dhankhar continues to reside at the Chhatarpur farmhouse, leaving the question of when he will receive his permanent government accommodation unresolved.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindutsan Times.