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Jagdeep Dhankhar, the 14th Vice President of India, holds one of the highest constitutional offices in the country. As the Deputy President of the Rajya Sabha, he plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the Upper House of Parliament. Known for his sharp legal mind, strong oratory skills, and long-standing political career, Dhankhar brings with him decades of experience in both the judiciary and governance.
In this article, we take a deep dive into:
- Early life and education
- Legal and judicial background
- Political journey and rise to prominence
- Role as Governor of West Bengal
- Election as Vice President
- Responsibilities as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha
- Political ideology and controversies
- Public image and legacy
👶 Early Life and Background
📍 Birthplace and Family
Jagdeep Dhankhar was born on 18 May 1951 in Kithana village, located in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, India. He hails from a Jat farming family, deeply rooted in rural traditions but committed to education and self-growth.
His early years were spent in a modest environment, surrounded by agricultural life and rural values. This background later shaped his grounded approach to politics and his understanding of rural India’s problems.
🎓 Education
- Schooling: Sainik School, Chittorgarh (Rajasthan)
- Graduation: B.Sc (Honours) in Physics from Maharaja’s College, Jaipur
- Law Degree: LLB from the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur
Dhankhar excelled in academics and was known for his analytical thinking and leadership qualities, even during his college days.
⚖️ Legal Career
Before stepping into active politics, Jagdeep Dhankhar made a name for himself as a successful advocate at the Rajasthan High Court and later at the Supreme Court of India. He specialized in constitutional law, service matters, and civil litigation.
Highlights of his legal career:
- Practiced law for over three decades
- Represented major clients including political leaders, corporations, and institutions
- Known for his sharp arguments, discipline, and grasp of legal frameworks
- Designated as a Senior Advocate in 1990
His legal background proved immensely beneficial in his political career, especially in interpreting constitutional provisions and understanding the rule of law.
🗳️ Entry into Politics
Jagdeep Dhankhar entered the political arena in the late 1980s, influenced by national events and the leadership of Choudhary Devi Lal, the then Deputy Prime Minister of India.
🧭 Political Affiliations Over the Years
- 1989–1991: Elected as Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) from Jhunjhunu on a Janata Dal ticket
- Served as Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs under PM Chandra Shekhar
- Later associated with the Indian National Congress (INC) for some time
- Eventually joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and rose steadily within the ranks
His shifting political alignments reflect a pragmatic approach to politics, focused on service delivery and national interest rather than ideological rigidity.
🏛️ Parliamentary Career
Lok Sabha Tenure
- Elected to the 9th Lok Sabha (1989–1991)
- Active in parliamentary debates, especially related to law, governance, and agriculture
- Earned a reputation for being a disciplined and articulate parliamentarian
Although he lost subsequent Lok Sabha elections, he remained a prominent figure in legal and political circles.
🌐 Role as Governor of West Bengal (2019–2022)
One of the most controversial and talked-about phases of his career was his tenure as the 28th Governor of West Bengal.
Key Highlights:
- Appointed in July 2019 by the President of India
- His relationship with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was frequently tense and confrontational
- Criticized the West Bengal government on multiple fronts, including law and order, education, and federal ethics
- Known for being proactive and vocal, often using Twitter and press conferences to express his views
- Advocated strong central oversight in matters of law and governance in the state
While supporters viewed him as a defender of the Constitution, critics accused him of being too political for a gubernatorial post.
🗳️ Vice Presidential Election 2022
Jagdeep Dhankhar was nominated by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) as its candidate for the Vice President of India in July 2022.
Election Details:
- Opponent: Margaret Alva, a veteran Congress leader
- Date of Election: 6 August 2022
- Votes Secured: 528 out of 725 valid votes
- Sworn in as 14th Vice President of India on 11 August 2022
His election was seen as part of BJP’s strategy to strengthen its rural outreach, especially among Jat communities in Rajasthan and Haryana.
🎙️ Role as Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha
As Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar automatically becomes the ex-officio Chairman (Deputy President) of the Rajya Sabha (Upper House of Parliament).
Key Responsibilities:
- Presiding over Rajya Sabha sessions
- Ensuring orderly conduct of debates
- Maintaining decorum in the House
- Deciding on points of order and interpreting parliamentary procedures
- Facilitating discussion on key national bills and policies
He has been praised for being firm, decisive, and impartial, often quoting constitutional rules and precedents during disruptions.
🧭 Political Ideology & Views
Though once associated with multiple parties, Dhankhar is now seen as a staunch supporter of constitutional nationalism, focusing on:
- Strong federal structure with accountable state governments
- Upholding the rule of law
- Transparent governance and zero tolerance for corruption
- Support for farmers and rural India
He believes in active governance and often calls for “constructive debates” rather than political confrontation.
🔥 Controversies & Criticism
Jagdeep Dhankhar has never shied away from speaking his mind, which has also landed him in the midst of several controversies:
Key Incidents:
- Frequent clashes with the West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee
- Accused of overstepping constitutional limits as a Governor
- Criticized for partisan behavior by opposition parties
- Tense moments in the Rajya Sabha with opposition leaders over procedural issues
Despite this, he enjoys the backing of the ruling party and is praised for being fearless and constitutionally grounded.
👥 Public Image and Personality
Jagdeep Dhankhar is known for:
- Simplicity and discipline
- Deep knowledge of constitutional law
- Powerful speeches and oratory skills
- Love for Hindi and regional languages
- Connect with grassroots and farming communities
He has also been active in youth forums, academic seminars, and legal awareness initiatives.
🧾 Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jagdeep Dhankhar |
| Date of Birth | 18 May 1951 |
| Birthplace | Kithana village, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan |
| Education | B.Sc (Hons), LLB |
| Profession | Lawyer, Politician |
| Political Career Start | 1989 (Lok Sabha MP) |
| Previous Role | Governor of West Bengal (2019–2022) |
| Current Position | Vice President of India (since Aug 2022) |
| Deputy Role | Chairman of Rajya Sabha |
| Known For | Legal mind, firm leadership, rural connect |
🏁 Conclusion
Jagdeep Dhankhar’s journey from a small village in Rajasthan to becoming the Vice President of India is a testament to hard work, intellect, and dedication to public service. With his legal acumen and fearless attitude, he continues to shape Indian parliamentary proceedings and constitutional discourse.
Whether admired for his command of law or criticized for his confrontational politics, Dhankhar remains a powerful figure in India’s evolving political landscape. His tenure as Vice President will be closely watched — not just for how he manages the Rajya Sabha, but also for how he navigates India’s complex political environment in the coming years.
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