Jagdeep Dhankhar not yet approached, but bungalow ready

Former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has not yet approached the Urban Development Ministry for an official residence, sources told India Today TV. Even so, the Directorate of Estates has vacated a Type-8 bungalow on APJ Abdul Kalam Road, Delhi, for his use.

If Dhankhar declines the bungalow, the ministry may offer him another option. As per government entitlement, former Presidents, Vice Presidents and Prime Ministers are allotted either a Type-8 bungalow in Lutyens' Delhi or two acres of land at their native place.

Dhankhar, 74, resigned as Vice President on July 22 citing health concerns. His exit came shortly after he presided over the opening day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament as Rajya Sabha Chairman on July 21. The Election Commission has since announced that polling to elect next Vice President will be held on September 9, with August 21 set as the last date for filing nominations. The results will be declared the same day.

Earlier this week, the BJP announced Maharashtra Governor and BJP leader CP Radhakrishnan as the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) candidate for the post of Vice President. Meanwhile, the Opposition's INDIA bloc has fielded former Supreme Court judge B Sudershan Reddy for the post.