Mallikarjun Kharge flays Jagdeep Dhankhar: ‘RS Chairman acts Like school headmaster, functions as govt spokesperson'
PTC Web Desk: In an unprecedented move, the Congress-led INDIA bloc has initiated a no-confidence motion against Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, accusing him of partisan behaviour that undermines the dignity of his constitutional position. This marks the first such resolution against a Vice President since 1952, highlighting mounting tensions within the Upper House of Parliament.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, speaking on Wednesday, said the Chairman's actions had prioritised politics over parliamentary rules. “The Rajya Sabha Chairperson has historically refrained from indulging in politics. However, this precedent has been broken under Jagdeep Dhankhar. His conduct often targets opposition leaders while praising the government of the day, which is contrary to the dignity of his role,” Kharge was reported as saying.
The 60 Rajya Sabha members from the opposition bloc submitted a resolution condemning Dhankhar’s alleged “partisan conduct.” The motion stated that his behaviour was “unbecoming of High-Level Constitutional Authorities” who are obligated to uphold the principles enshrined in the Constitution.
Kharge further criticised the Chairman, comparing him to a “school headmaster” who frequently delivers sermons to experienced opposition leaders while stifling their voices. “The biggest reason for disruptions in Rajya Sabha is the Chairman himself. He often acts like a spokesperson for the government,” Kharge remarked.
The motion also highlighted Dhankhar's alleged misuse of privilege motions to silence dissent, repeated interruptions of opposition speakers, and efforts to delegitimise dissenting voices against the government.
According to Article 67(b) of the Constitution, the removal of the Vice President requires a motion supported by at least 14 days’ notice from Rajya Sabha members. The ongoing winter session of Parliament, scheduled to conclude on December 20, is expected to address the no-confidence motion in its next session.
The resolution noted that Dhankhar’s actions, including his handling of parliamentary affairs, have repeatedly violated the principles of impartiality and fair conduct. Opposition leaders have expressed concerns over his alleged bias and its impact on the functioning of the Upper House.
- With inputs from agencies
