In his first public address since his abrupt resignation in July, former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar cautioned against falling prey to political narratives, calling them a dangerous “chakravyuh” that is difficult to escape. Dhankhar delivered the remarks during a book launch event in Bhopal, where he spoke at length — often with humour — about his absence from public life.
Opening his address, Dhankhar said, “Four months later, on this occasion, on this book, in this city, I should have no hesitation to speak.” The 74-year-old stepped down as Vice President on July 21, citing health concerns. His resignation came just a day after the Monsoon Session of Parliament began, triggering speculation of a rift with the ruling BJP.
Dhankhar used the platform to warn against manipulation through narratives, saying, “God forbid that anyone gets caught in a narrative. If someone gets trapped in this labyrinth, it becomes very difficult to get out.”
He then added with characteristic wit, “I am not giving my own example,” prompting laughter from the audience.
The former Bengal governor also reacted to a message from his officer on special duty about his scheduled 7.30 pm flight. He continued speaking regardless, saying, “I cannot abandon my duty by worrying about a flight. My recent past is proof.”
Before concluding, he joked, “Due to lack of time, I could not speak fully.”
Dhankhar Praises Book, Says It ‘Awakens Cultural Values’
Dhankhar was speaking at the launch of a book authored by RSS joint general secretary Manmohan Vaidya. He described the book as a tribute to India’s heritage.
“This book will awaken those who are asleep. It will make us aware of our cultural values,” he said.
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Switching to English mid-speech, Dhankhar noted that some people “who do not want to understand or who wish to tarnish the image” should grasp his viewpoint without ambiguity.
Political Ripples: No BJP Minister Welcomed Him at Airport
In a development that raised eyebrows, no member of the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government reached the Bhopal airport to receive the former Vice President — a break from protocol.
This led to a sharp commentary from former chief minister Digvijaya Singh, who attacked the BJP, saying the incident reflected a “use and throw policy.”
Singh told reporters, “They (BJP) follow the use and throw policy.” His remarks quickly stirred political chatter around Dhankhar’s equation with the ruling establishment.
