Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar Emphasizes the Need for Institutional Boundaries and Mutual Respect Among Constitutional Authorities

In a significant address delivered on Thursday during the release event of Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel’s memoir “Chunautiyan Mujhe Pasand Hain” in Lucknow, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar raised concerns about the functioning of constitutional institutions, urging them to stay within their defined jurisdictions.

He stressed the importance of harmony, coordination, and mutual respect among the pillars of Indian democracy, particularly underlining the distinct and supreme responsibilities assigned to positions such as the President of India and state governors.

Dhankhar, in his remarks, emphasized that no institution should attempt to encroach upon the functions of another, warning against the potential dangers of overreach.

He noted troubling instances in which occupants of high constitutional posts—including the President and governors—have been subject to criticism or comments that could undermine the dignity associated with such positions.

In this context, he reminded the audience of these posts’ unique status within the Indian constitutional framework.

Explaining the gravity of their roles, the Vice-President pointed out that the oaths taken by the President and governors differ fundamentally from those taken by other public officials such as ministers, members of Parliament and legislative assemblies, or even judges.

While most public functionaries pledge to uphold and abide by the Constitution, the President and governors swear an oath to “protect, preserve, and defend” the Constitution and to faithfully serve the citizens of the nation or the respective state.

This, he argued, elevates their responsibilities to a higher, more solemn level, reinforcing their symbolic and operational supremacy within the constitutional structure.

Dhankhar expressed a sense of unease over recent developments involving institutional conduct, particularly about the judiciary.

Without directly naming the issue, he appeared to refer to the Supreme Court’s observations on the Waqf Act, hinting at what he perceives as judicial overstepping.

He reiterated that while he holds the judiciary in the highest regard, the principle of separation of powers must be rigorously maintained.

Laws are to be made by the legislature, and judgments are to be passed by the judiciary — any deviation from this structure disturbs the equilibrium of governance, he implied.

Calling for “coordination, collaboration and cooperation” among all constitutional bodies, Dhankhar stressed that respect between institutions can only be cultivated when each remains confined to its constitutionally assigned domain.

He cautioned that confrontation between these bodies is not what the Constitution envisages. Instead, it lays the foundation for a system governed by dialogue, debate, and deliberation — all in the spirit of upholding democratic values and ensuring accountability to the people.

Reaffirming the significance of elected representatives in a democracy, the Vice-President noted that they embody the will of the people — a reflection of the choices made by 140 crore citizens.

These leaders are ultimately accountable to the electorate through periodic elections, making it crucial that their constitutional mandate is respected.

He concluded his address by reiterating the necessity for all constitutional authorities to operate within the framework laid down by the Constitution, maintaining mutual respect and fostering a spirit of cooperation.

In doing so, he argued, the foundational balance of India’s democracy would be preserved, thereby reinforcing public trust in governance.