Does Dhankhar's Resignation Indicate a Threat to Democracy?

Jaipur, July 23 (NationPress) Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot expressed on Wednesday that the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar from the Vice Presidency of India significantly heightens concerns regarding the state of democracy in the nation.

“I have reiterated multiple times that democracy is facing threats in our country. This resignation only solidifies that apprehension. Just 15 days ago, Dhankhar asserted he would serve until 2027. His sudden resignation, despite being in good health, raises questions about the pressures he faced. Only he or his conscience can clarify,” Gehlot stated during a media interaction at the Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee headquarters, where he paid homage to veteran Congress figure Parasram Maderna on his birth anniversary.

He asserted that both the Lok Sabha Speaker and Rajya Sabha Chairman have been operating under undue pressure.

“I pointed this out earlier in Jodhpur. In response, Dhankhar recently refuted it at an event for former MLAs in Jaipur, claiming he neither operates under pressure nor exerts it on others. However, his resignation now raises suspicions. There is a connection somewhere, and only Dhankhar or his conscience knows the truth,” Gehlot remarked.

Gehlot also criticized the actions of central agencies and institutions, including the Election Commission.

“If the EC begins removing voters' names, how can democracy endure? In Bihar, there is a total breakdown of order. In Maharashtra, they won through one-sided means. The misuse of institutions is overt,” he emphasized.

He urged public involvement to counter such trends, stating that the onus of preserving democracy is not solely on political parties; common citizens must also take action.

“Support the truth, regardless of whether it aligns with the government or the opposition; otherwise, the bullying by BJP-RSS will persist, and the populace will bear the brunt,” he stated.

On the Congress's stance regarding Dhankhar, Gehlot asserted that the party's position has remained consistent. “Some argue that while we previously moved a no-confidence motion, we are now reaching out to him. Yet our position is principled, both then and now,” he said.

He further remarked that constitutional roles like the Vice Presidency should maintain dignity. “If there were issues, a more suitable approach could have been utilized. This abrupt resignation raises more questions than it answers. It seems politically motivated, and the Congress strongly repudiates how it has unfolded,” Gehlot added.

Gehlot also addressed frequent opposition complaints against Speakers and Chairpersons.

“It is commonly stated that once a Speaker assumes office, they should transcend party lines. However, impartiality is often lacking. Leaders like CP Joshi and Parasram Maderna exemplified the ability to run the House neutrally,” noted the former Chief Minister.