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Jagdeep Dhankhar, India's Vice President, has increasingly become a prominent figure in the nation's political landscape. Often referred to as JD, Dhankhar's role, though perhaps not entirely understood by the general public in its specifics, has been amplified by his outspoken nature and unwavering loyalty to President Droupadi Murmu. This has led to him becoming a household name, drawing comparisons to figures like Han Zheng in China, reflecting the global nature of vice-presidential roles and their varying degrees of public visibility. Reactions to Dhankhar's approach are diverse, contingent on individual political leanings and perspectives. His recent statement at Delhi University, emphasizing that elected representatives should be the 'ultimate masters' of India's constitution, has resonated strongly with elected officials across the political spectrum, particularly in democracies where electoral mandates carry significant weight, be it in the United States, Russia, or even politically charged regions like West Bengal. This assertion underscores a belief in the primacy of the people's mandate as expressed through elections, a cornerstone of democratic governance. However, it also raises complex questions about the interpretation and application of constitutional principles, particularly concerning the balance of power between different branches of government. Dhankhar's tenure as Vice President has been marked by a clear articulation of his views on the role of the judiciary. He has expressed reservations about what he perceives as the 'arbitrary' functioning of the judicial system. This stance is understandable given his position as part of the executive branch, the 'Team Executive,' which sometimes finds itself at odds with the judiciary, or what he terms the 'Woke Zero 'Objection!' crowd'. This apparent divergence in perspectives highlights the inherent tensions that can exist between the executive and judicial branches, each with its own responsibilities and interpretations of the constitution. It also reflects broader debates about judicial activism and the extent to which courts should intervene in matters of public policy. Dhankhar's broader agenda includes a crusade against what he terms 'Lutyens-baazi,' a term that refers to the perceived elitism and entrenched interests of the old establishment in Delhi. He sees himself as embodying a new form of leadership, one that is more attuned to the needs and aspirations of the common people. As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, Dhankhar's interventions have demonstrated a clear departure from traditional notions of neutrality. He argues that true neutrality is unattainable, except perhaps for those who are deeply spiritual, and that in the realm of politics, taking a stand is often necessary to advance the interests of the people. His actions in the Rajya Sabha reflect this belief, suggesting a more assertive and engaged style of chairmanship than might be expected. In essence, Jagdeep Dhankhar's tenure as Vice President is a testament to the enduring relevance of the role and the potential for vice presidents to shape the political discourse. He is an evangelist for the power of the 'people's will,' and his actions and statements have made him a figure of considerable influence in Indian politics, sparking debates about the balance of power, the role of the judiciary, and the future of Indian democracy.
The implications of Dhankhar's statements and actions extend beyond the immediate context of Indian politics. His emphasis on the primacy of elected representatives has resonated with leaders and political movements around the world who believe that their electoral mandates should be respected and that they have the right to implement their policy agendas without undue interference from other branches of government or from external actors. This perspective can be seen in various forms of populism, nationalism, and authoritarianism, where leaders claim to represent the true will of the people and seek to consolidate their power. However, Dhankhar's approach also raises concerns about the protection of minority rights, the rule of law, and the independence of the judiciary. If elected representatives are seen as the 'ultimate masters' of the constitution, there is a risk that they may abuse their power and disregard the rights of those who do not support their policies. This is particularly true in countries where there is a history of political polarization and where minority groups are vulnerable to discrimination and persecution. The judiciary plays a crucial role in safeguarding these rights and ensuring that the government acts within the bounds of the constitution. By criticizing the judiciary and questioning its independence, Dhankhar is undermining one of the key pillars of a democratic society. His crusade against 'Lutyens-baazi' also reflects a broader trend in many countries, where there is growing resentment towards the elites and the establishment. This resentment is often fueled by economic inequality, social injustice, and a sense that the political system is rigged in favor of the wealthy and powerful. While there is certainly a need to address these issues and to make the political system more responsive to the needs of ordinary people, it is important to avoid simplistic solutions and to recognize that the elites are not a monolithic group. Some elites are genuinely committed to serving the public good, and they can play a valuable role in promoting economic development, social progress, and democratic governance. Dhankhar's emphasis on the 'people's will' is also problematic. While it is important to listen to the voices of ordinary people and to take their concerns seriously, it is also important to recognize that the people's will is not always wise or just. Public opinion can be easily manipulated by propaganda, disinformation, and emotional appeals. It is therefore essential to have institutions and mechanisms in place to ensure that decisions are based on sound evidence, careful deliberation, and respect for the rights of all citizens.
Moreover, Dhankhar's elevation to the Vice Presidency signifies a shift in the political dynamics of India. His background, hailing from a non-traditional political family and rising through the ranks, contrasts sharply with the established political dynasties that have often dominated Indian politics. This reflects a growing trend of representation for individuals from diverse backgrounds in positions of power, signaling a potential move towards a more inclusive and representative political system. His outspoken nature and willingness to challenge the status quo have resonated with a segment of the population that feels marginalized and underrepresented. This support base views him as a champion of their interests, someone who is not afraid to speak truth to power and challenge the established order. However, his approach has also drawn criticism from those who see him as divisive and polarising. They argue that his rhetoric is stoking social tensions and undermining the foundations of Indian democracy. These critics point to his attacks on the judiciary and his efforts to curtail dissent as evidence of his authoritarian tendencies. The debates surrounding Dhankhar's Vice Presidency highlight the complex challenges facing Indian democracy. On the one hand, there is a need to address the grievances of marginalized communities and to make the political system more responsive to the needs of ordinary people. On the other hand, there is a need to protect the rule of law, to safeguard minority rights, and to ensure that the government acts within the bounds of the constitution. Finding the right balance between these competing priorities is essential to the long-term health of Indian democracy. Jagdeep Dhankhar's tenure as Vice President is thus a significant moment in Indian history. His actions and statements will be closely scrutinized in the years to come, and his legacy will be debated for generations. Whether he is remembered as a champion of the people or as a divisive figure who undermined Indian democracy remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: his tenure will have a lasting impact on the political landscape of India.
The comparison drawn between Dhankhar and his Chinese counterpart, Han Zheng, while perhaps intended as a lighthearted observation, underscores a more profound point about the evolving nature of vice-presidential roles in different political systems. In both India and China, the vice president serves as a key figure in the executive branch, often tasked with supporting the president and carrying out specific responsibilities. However, the specific roles and responsibilities of vice presidents can vary significantly depending on the political context. In India, the vice president also serves as the chairman of the Rajya Sabha, giving them a direct role in the legislative process. This dual role allows the vice president to influence both the executive and legislative branches of government. In China, the vice president is primarily focused on supporting the president in carrying out executive functions. They typically do not have a direct role in the legislative process. The comparison between Dhankhar and Han Zheng also highlights the different political systems in which they operate. India is a democratic republic with a multi-party system and a strong tradition of free speech and political debate. China is a communist state with a one-party system and strict controls on freedom of expression. These differences in political systems have a significant impact on the role and responsibilities of the vice president. In India, the vice president is subject to public scrutiny and is accountable to the people. In China, the vice president is primarily accountable to the Communist Party. The comparison between Dhankhar and Han Zheng is therefore a reminder that the role of the vice president is not fixed or universal. It is shaped by the specific political context in which it operates. Despite these differences, both Dhankhar and Han Zheng serve as important figures in their respective governments, and their actions and statements have a significant impact on the political landscape of their countries. Ultimately, the Vice President Dhankhar's legacy will be defined by his ability to navigate these complex challenges and to contribute to the long-term well-being of Indian democracy. His commitment to serving the people and his unwavering loyalty to the constitution will be essential to ensuring that India remains a vibrant and thriving democracy for generations to come. His actions will be judged by history, and it is imperative that he acts in a manner befitting the high office he holds, upholding the principles of justice, equality, and freedom for all citizens of India.