Jagdeep Dhankhar, the 14th and current Vice President of India, is a name that has become increasingly prominent in the Indian political landscape. A seasoned lawyer, skilled parliamentarian, and former Governor of West Bengal, Dhankhar’s rise to the second-highest constitutional post in the country reflects a career marked by dedication, discipline, and public service.
In this blog post, we will explore the life, career, political journey, and achievements of Jagdeep Dhankhar in detail.
Early Life and Education
- Born: May 18, 1951
- Birthplace: Kithana village, Jhunjhunu district, Rajasthan
- Family Background: Agrarian family with humble roots
Jagdeep Dhankhar was born into a modest Jat farming family in Rajasthan. Despite financial constraints, his parents emphasized education and values. Dhankhar showed academic brilliance from a young age.
Academic Qualifications
- Schooling: Sainik School, Chittorgarh (now known as Maharana Pratap Sainik School)
- College: University of Rajasthan
- B.Sc. (Physics Honours)
- LL.B. from Rajasthan University Law College, Jaipur
His education laid a strong foundation for his dual careers in law and politics.
Legal Career
Before entering active politics, Jagdeep Dhankhar built a reputable legal career.
- Profession: Senior Advocate
- Specialization: Constitutional law, commercial law, and arbitration
- Court Appearances: Practiced primarily at the Rajasthan High Court and Supreme Court of India
He also served as the Senior Advocate of the Supreme Court, and was designated as such in 1990. Dhankhar earned a reputation for being a sharp, articulate, and principled lawyer.
Political Journey
Entry into Politics
Jagdeep Dhankhar entered politics in the late 1980s. He was elected to the 9th Lok Sabha from Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, in 1989 as a Janata Dal candidate.
Ministerial Role
- Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs (1990–1991)
- Under Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar
- Known for his administrative capabilities and ability to build consensus
Shift to Indian National Congress
After the fall of the Chandra Shekhar government, Dhankhar joined the Indian National Congress (INC) and contested elections under its banner, though without much electoral success in later years.
Joining BJP
In the early 2000s, Dhankhar moved to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), aligning himself with its ideologies and policies. His legal acumen and political insight earned him key roles within the party over time.
Governor of West Bengal (2019–2022)
One of the most prominent roles in his career came when he was appointed the 28th Governor of West Bengal on 30 July 2019.
Key Highlights:
- Known for his frequent clashes with the West Bengal Government led by CM Mamata Banerjee.
- He raised questions about governance, law and order, and the constitutional responsibilities of the state government.
- His tenure was controversial yet significant, as he brought national attention to the ongoing political dynamics in the state.
Despite criticism from some quarters, Dhankhar maintained that he was upholding constitutional values and the office’s dignity.
Vice President of India (2022–Present)
Elected as the 14th Vice President of India
- Date of Election: August 6, 2022
- Sworn in: August 11, 2022
- Defeated: Margaret Alva (Opposition candidate)
- Support: NDA (National Democratic Alliance), BJP, and several regional parties
As Vice President, he also serves as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Upper House of Parliament).
Role and Approach
Jagdeep Dhankhar is known for:
- Advocating parliamentary discipline
- Emphasizing the importance of dialogue and debate
- Calling out disruptions in the Rajya Sabha
- Upholding the Constitutional sanctity of his office
He has promoted robust discussions, respect for parliamentary decorum, and neutrality in his role as the presiding officer.
Personal Life
- Spouse: Sudesh Dhankhar
- Children: One daughter, Kamna Dhankhar
- Hobbies: Reading, yoga, and traveling
Dhankhar is also known for being humble and grounded, often connecting with rural communities and legal professionals.
Awards & Recognitions
While he hasn’t received many public awards, his elevation to high constitutional offices—from Governor to Vice President—stands as a testament to his contributions.
Legacy and Impact
Jagdeep Dhankhar’s career reflects a unique blend of law and politics. From a village in Rajasthan to the Vice Presidency of India, his journey inspires countless young Indians.
His legacy is still in the making, but he has already left a mark through:
- Promoting constitutional discipline
- Advocating for parliamentary ethics
- Representing India’s rural-to-rashtrapati path
Conclusion
Jagdeep Dhankhar is a testament to how perseverance, education, and dedication can lead to the highest echelons of public service. Whether as a lawyer, minister, governor, or Vice President, he has shown an unwavering commitment to India’s democratic fabric.
As India navigates complex domestic and global challenges, Dhankhar’s presence in the Vice Presidential seat adds strength to the country’s democratic institutions.
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