GG News Bureau
Jaipur, 30th June: In a candid and assertive address at the ‘Sneh Milan Samaroh’ in Jaipur, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar dismissed speculations surrounding political pressure, saying, “I am not under pressure, I do not pressure anyone, nor do I operate under pressure.”
Responding publicly to concerns raised by a former Rajasthan Chief Minister, Dhankhar emphasized, “He is one of my oldest friends in politics and a well-wisher, but he need not worry. There is no pressure on me — not from any quarter.”
Commenting on the frequent politicization of constitutional offices, he remarked that Governors are often unfairly treated as “punching bags,” especially when the state and central governments belong to different political parties. He warned against dragging the President or Vice-President into political crossfire, calling such practices “inappropriate and concerning.”
On the rising political heat in the country, Dhankhar expressed concern. “The political atmosphere today is not healthy for democracy. Power changes hands, but we are not enemies — our enemies lie across the border, not within.”
Urging political leaders to rise above party lines in matters of national interest, he stated, “When we go abroad, there is no ruling or opposition party. We represent Bharat. National interest is our duty; Bharatiyata is our pride.”
The Vice-President underlined the need for civil political discourse. “Democracy thrives on debate and disagreement — what our Vedas call ‘Anantavaad’. Opposition is not enmity; it’s a vital part of our democracy.”
Addressing India’s global standing, Dhankhar said, “India was once among the five most fragile economies. Today, it stands in the top four globally. The last decade is being recognized worldwide as India’s economic rise — no other major country has made such a leap.”
He also invoked the legacy of the Constituent Assembly, noting its spirit of consensus. “They took nearly three years to draft the Constitution. Despite deep issues, they never disrupted proceedings. We must learn from their example.”
On policymaking for farmers, he advocated for direct benefit transfers, suggesting that every farming household could receive over ₹30,000 annually if subsidies were streamlined. “Let the choice between organic and traditional farming rest with the farmer,” he said, citing the U.S. model where farm incomes exceed household averages.
The event was attended by Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde, Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani, Opposition Leader Tikaram Juli, and other dignitaries.
