In a key political shift just ahead of crucial parliamentary proceedings, Harivansh Narayan Singh, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, has been appointed as the Acting Chairman.
The move follows the sudden resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on the inaugural day of the Monsoon Session. The transition aims to ensure procedural stability and uninterrupted functioning of the Upper House.
Meeting with the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan
On Tuesday morning, Singh met with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he was formally entrusted with the duties of presiding over the Rajya Sabha.
Under Article 90 of the Indian Constitution, the Deputy Chairman steps in as Acting Chairman in the event of a vacancy in the office of the Vice President, who otherwise serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
The meeting between Singh and the President was brief yet significant. Following their discussion, the President officially approved Singh’s elevation to the acting role. Political circles have interpreted this development as a form of promotion for Singh, who has long maintained a respectable and neutral presence in parliamentary affairs.
President’s Tweet Confirms and Endorses the Appointment
Shortly after the meeting, President Murmu took to the social media platform to share a photograph of her interaction with Singh.
Taking to X, she posted, “Shri Harivansh, Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan.”
Shri Harivansh, Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. pic.twitter.com/ImJis5d69t
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) July 22, 2025
Leaders and parliamentarians have widely appreciated Harivansh Narayan Singh, a seasoned journalist-turned-politician, for conducting the House with impartiality and discipline during his tenure as Deputy Chairman.
He will now take on a pivotal role in steering parliamentary discussions and maintaining order, especially as leaders expect a heated Monsoon Session ahead of the 2025 General Elections.
Meanwhile, the abrupt resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has taken many by surprise. He submitted his resignation letter early on Monday, citing personal reasons, although he did not make any specific explanation public.
The President accepted his resignation the same day with immediate effect. Leaders and observers recognised Dhankhar, who took office as Vice President in August 2022, for his assertive handling of the House and strong stances during constitutional debates.
With the post of Vice President now vacant, the appointment of an Acting Chairman became essential to ensure that the business of the Rajya Sabha proceeds without disruption.
While Singh will not perform the ceremonial and constitutional duties of the Vice President, he will fulfil the entire range of responsibilities required to run the Upper House.
As the Monsoon Session continues, all eyes will remain on Singh as he leads the Rajya Sabha through a politically charged and legislatively critical period.
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