Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns: What Chronic Sleep Deprivation Does To Political Decision-Making

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In a surprising move, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has resigned from office, citing health-related issues. While official sources have not disclosed details, senior aides have hinted at chronic fatigue, insomnia, and long-term sleep deprivation as contributing factors. His decision has sparked a much-needed conversation: can politicians keep functioning at peak performance without rest?

Photo Credit: Oneindia

Political life is often glorified for its fast pace and round-the-clock dedication. But beneath that heroic exterior lies a silent health crisis that affects many top-level leaders-chronic sleep deprivation.

Let's unpack what losing sleep does to political decision-making, and why it may be time for India to rethink the expectations we place on our leaders.

1. Decline In Cognitive Clarity

One of the most dangerous effects of sleep deprivation is the rapid drop in mental clarity. Studies show that after just 24 hours without proper rest, a person's cognitive function mimics someone who is legally drunk.

For a politician juggling legislation, diplomacy, crisis response, and internal party pressure, this mental fog can translate into poorly timed statements, misjudged alliances, or indecisive action at crucial moments. Chronic sleeplessness makes it harder to weigh options, remember key data points, or anticipate consequences-all crucial elements of sound political strategy.

Photo Credit: Oneindia

2. Emotional Regulation Gets Affected

You may notice it in snappier press conferences, irritable debates in Parliament, or sharp remarks at midnight press briefings-lack of sleep affects emotional control.
For someone in high office, emotions that aren't well-regulated can spark controversy or conflict.

Research confirms that sleep-deprived individuals experience heightened amygdala activity (the brain's fear and aggression center), meaning they are more reactive and less measured in emotionally charged scenarios. In political settings, this can quickly escalate into diplomatic missteps or public outbursts.

3. Sleep-Starved Brains Prioritize Short-Term Wins

Decision-making without adequate sleep becomes biased toward short-term rewards over long-term goals. A well-rested leader might delay gratification to push through an unpopular reform for long-term public benefit. But a sleep-deprived one may choose crowd-pleasing headlines over hard policy decisions.

This short-term thinking is why some political experts worry when key government figures operate on minimal rest. Complex governance problems need long-haul vision, not reactive decision-making driven by exhaustion.

4. Physical Health Breaks Down Quietly

Chronic sleep loss is a slow killer. It increases the risk of hypertension, diabetes, stroke, and even cancer. For politicians constantly on the move, eating on the go, and under constant scrutiny, lack of sleep only accelerates physical deterioration.

Vice President Dhankhar's quiet exit is not the first health-related resignation in Indian politics. From cardiac scares to post-COVID fatigue, many leaders have experienced health declines that were later traced back to overwork and burnout. The problem is systemic, and worse-it's normalized.

5. Image Of Tireless Leadership Needs Rethinking

There is a persistent myth in Indian politics that the best leaders sleep the least. Tales of ministers taking calls at 3 a.m. or flying overnight for rallies are often shared with pride. But this expectation may be outdated and harmful.

Globally, leaders like New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern or Germany's Angela Merkel have spoken openly about needing proper rest to make effective decisions. Sleep is not a luxury-it's a public service necessity. Leaders who rest think better, lead better, and recover faster from crises.

Wake-Up Call For Political Culture?

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation may be more than a health issue-it's a signal that we've pushed leadership beyond its human limits. Politics doesn't have to be powered by sacrifice alone. It can also be guided by science, self-care, and sanity.

As India looks ahead to newer, younger leaders in public life, maybe it's time we ask-not who can stay awake the longest, but who is well-rested enough to serve wisely.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.