Jagdeep Dhankhar’s political career came to an unexpected end on Monday when he resigned as Vice President of India, becoming the first in history to leave office in this manner. His departure was marked by a simple post on social media, without a farewell speech or public address, signaling a stark contrast to the lively beginnings of his political journey that began with a rally at Delhi’s Boat Club in 1987.
Over the span of decades, Dhankhar transitioned from a member of the Indian National Congress to a leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). During his time in prominent roles, including governor and vice president, he frequently faced accusations of bias from opposition parties. His first electoral contest was in 1989, running on a Janata Dal ticket for the Jhunjhunu seat in Rajasthan. Between 1993 and 1998, he was associated with Congress as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Rajasthan before joining the BJP in 2008. He served as Governor of West Bengal from 2019 until his elevation to Vice President in 2022.
Throughout his career, Dhankhar’s standing within the Jat community significantly contributed to his rise. His political journey is marked by vital moments, particularly his participation in the 1987 Boat Club rally organized by Chaudhary Devi Lal, then a prominent Jat figure and Deputy Prime Minister of India. This event not only showcased Dhankhar’s credentials but also solidified a lasting alliance between the two leaders. Ranjit Singh Chautala, Devi Lal’s son, recalled Dhankhar’s impressive mobilization of supporters, which earned him praise from Devi Lal and ultimately led to his invitation to contest in the 1989 elections.
Dhankhar’s tenure as Governor of West Bengal was tumultuous, characterized by notable confrontations with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Analysts often labeled him the leading opposition voice in the state due to his fierce criticism of her administration. His vice presidency was equally contentious; he faced numerous charges of partisanship after frequently suspending opposition members. Although a motion was filed for his removal, it did not pass, making him the first vice president to have lawmakers attempt to oust him due to perceived bias toward the ruling BJP.
Additionally, Dhankhar was an outspoken critic of judicial decisions, notably challenging the Supreme Court’s ruling on the National Judicial Appointments Commission, which he described as a serious compromise of parliamentary sovereignty. The opposition often depicted him as overly loyal to the government, sharing videos that highlighted his interactions with key figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and criticized his praise for the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Despite facing years of criticism and intense political clashes, Dhankhar’s resignation on Monday marked the end of a career that commenced in 1989 and reportedly continued even while he held the apolitical role of vice president. His quiet exit serves as a notable conclusion to a career shaped by both alliances and adversities.
Original Source: https://www.firstpost.com/india/from-boat-club-rally-to-shock-exit-jagdeep-dhankhar-the-only-vp-to-face-notice-of-removal-for-partisan-conduct-in-rs-13910207.html
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Publish Date: 2025-07-22 16:02:00
