I Like Challenges; Fulfilling Constitutional Obligations Primary Responsibility: VP Dhankhar

GG News Bureau
Lucknow, 2nd May: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, speaking at the book launch of “I Like Challenges” by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, delivered a powerful address emphasizing the importance of fulfilling constitutional obligations and addressing internal challenges. He asserted that he “doesn’t have the habit of taking anything for free” and that he thrives on challenges, viewing the upholding of constitutional duties as a paramount responsibility.

Dhankhar expressed deep concern over comments made against dignified constitutional positions like the President and Governor, stating they deserve serious reflection. He stressed that these positions are entrusted with protecting, preserving, and defending the Constitution, and any disrespect towards them is a matter of grave concern.

“In our Constitution, two positions are considered supreme — one is the President of India, and the other is the Governor,” he stated, highlighting the unique oath they take to safeguard the Constitution and serve the people.

He also addressed the importance of inter-institutional harmony, emphasizing that the Constitution envisions dialogue, deliberation, and healthy debate, not confrontation. “The Constitution does not expect confrontation, but rather coordination, cooperation, dialogue, deliberation, and healthy debate,” he said. He further emphasized that all institutions, including the legislature, judiciary, and executive, should work within their respective boundaries and respect each other’s roles.

Dhankhar stressed his “utmost respect for the judiciary,” having spent over four decades as a lawyer. He called for a spirit of cooperation, coordination, and participation among all institutions, stating that “all institutions should work in coordination.”

He warned against internal challenges, calling them the “most dangerous,” and spoke of instances where even discussing such challenges becomes difficult. “The most dangerous challenge is the one that comes from within, which we cannot discuss… the challenge that comes from our own people, which has no logical basis, which has no connection with national development, which is related to governance,” he said.

Dhankhar also addressed the issue of crime and justice, stating that if a crime shakes the public conscience, it cannot be covered up and must be resolved according to the law. He referenced the Emergency as a dark period in Indian history, reminding the audience that such events are not easily forgotten.

“Have we forgotten the Emergency? Much time has passed, but the dark shadow of the Emergency is still visible to us today,” he said.

He concluded by emphasizing the real definition of democracy as “expression and debate,” highlighting the importance of dialogue in a democratic society. “The real definition of democracy is — expression and debate. Expression and dialogue are the foundations of democracy,” he asserted.

The event was attended by Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and other dignitaries.