Shri. Jagdeep Dhankhar, born on 8 October 1951 in Kithana, Rajasthan, India, is an accomplished lawyer and politician serving as the 14th Vice President of India. With his incredible journey from a successful legal career to holding the second-highest constitutional office in the country, Dhankhar has undoubtedly made a significant impact on Indian politics.
Let us delve into his early life, education, notable achievements, and contributions to society through legal and social work.
Early Life and Education
Jagdeep Dhankhar Sir was born in a middle-class family in Kithana, a small village in Jhunjhunu District, Rajasthan. He belongs to the Jat family of Rajasthan. Growing up in a family that valued culture, Dhankhar learned the importance of commitment and perseverance since childhood.
Dhankhar Sir completed his schooling in Chittorgarh and then pursued higher education at the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur. After graduating with honors in Commerce, he soon realized his inclination toward the legal field. He pursued law and enrolled in the University of Rajasthan’s Department of Law. Dhankhar’s passion and dedication led to him securing a gold medal for outstanding academic performance.
About Shri Jagdeep Dhankar: 14th Vice President of India
- Born: 18th May 1951
- Birth Place: Village Kithana, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan
- Father/ Mother: Late Shri Gokal Chand and Late Smt. Kesari Devi
- Spouse: Dr. Sudesh Dhankar
- Children: Smt. Kamna
- Schooling: Sainik School, Chittorgarh, Kithana Government School, and Ghardana Government School
- College: BSC and LLB from the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur
- Residence: Uprashtrapati Bhawan, New Delhi, India
- Political Party: Bhartiya Janta Dal (BJP)
- Website: www.vicepresidentofindia.nic.in
Legal Career
After completing his education, Jagdeep Dhankhar embarked on a successful legal career spanning over four decades. He began practicing law in Rajasthan and quickly gained recognition for his exceptional legal acumen and ethical conduct, where he enrolled in the Bar Council of Rajasthan as an advocate in 1979.
Later, designated as Senior Advocate in High Court Judicature in 1990. Dhankhar specialized in constitutional and criminal law, and his meticulous approach to legal matters earned him the respect of his peers and the judiciary. Since 1990, he has been practicing as a senior advocate in the Supreme Court of India.
Dhankhar’s illustrious career as an advocate took him to various courts where he represented clients in many cases. His impressive track record and unwavering commitment to justice led him to be the Senior Standing Counsel to the Central Government in the prestigious Supreme Court of India.
He is the former President of the Rajasthan High Court Bar Association, Jaipur. He argued the most-talked case of the Sutlej River dispute in 2016 on behalf of the Haryana state government and the Supreme Court of India.
Achievements and Recognitions
Jagdeep Dhankhar received numerous accolades for his exceptional legal knowledge and advocacy skills. His commitment to the legal profession and upholding the principles of justice earned him immense respect within the legal fraternity.
Dhankhar’s contributions to society extend beyond his legal career. He actively worked to promote social welfare and the upliftment of marginalized communities.
He is raising awareness about the rights of persons with disabilities and spearheading initiatives for their inclusion. Dhankar’s stint as the Chairman of the People With Disability section of the Indian Law Institute was instrumental in bringing significant changes in the legal framework to protect the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities.
Political Career and Vice Presidency
Jagdeep Dhankhar’s dedication to public service led him to enter politics. He joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and participated in various political activities, representing the party’s ideals and vision.
He was appointed as Governor of West Bengal in 2019. During this phase, his exceptional leadership skills, legal expertise, and extensive experience made him a prominent candidate for Vice President of India. In 2022, he was nominated as a Vice President candidate by Union Home Minister, Amit Shah.
He is an Indian politician and the current Vice President of India. He was sworn in as the Vice President on August 11, 2022, taking over from the previous Vice President, Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu.
As the Vice President, Dhankar is the second-highest constitutional office in India after the President. His role primarily involves presiding over the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament.
Some of the responsibilities of the Vice President include
1. Presiding over the Rajya Sabha:
The Vice President is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. In this capacity, Dhankar has the authority to maintain order and decorum during the sessions of the Rajya Sabha, decide on points of order, and interpret the rules of procedure.
2. Casting Vote:
A tie on any matter voted upon in the Rajya Sabha is broken by the Vice President who has the casting vote.
3. Representing India:
The Vice President represents India in various capacities, domestically and internationally. During the absence of the President, he attends official functions and visits foreign countries on state visits.
4. Discharge of other functions:
The Vice President is also entrusted by the President with other duties, including appointing committees, commissions, and other bodies, aside from his role as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Dhankhar’s election as the Vice President of India marked a significant milestone in his political career and a testament to his commitment to serving the nation. Since assuming office, he is furthering the nation’s progress by supporting the government’s policies and advocating for the welfare of all citizens.
Social Work and Philanthropy
Jagdeep Dhankhar has always been passionate about giving back to society. He has actively engaged in various philanthropic and social welfare initiatives.
Dhankhar has tirelessly worked to uplift underprivileged communities, provide education, and empower women through skill development programs. In addition, he has lent his support to numerous NGOs working towards social upliftment, including organizations dedicated to improving healthcare facilities and eradicating poverty.
Conclusion
Jagdeep Dhankhar’s incredible journey from a successful lawyer to the Vice President of India is a testament to his remarkable academic, legal, and political achievements. His unwavering commitment to justice, social work, and political contribution has left an indelible mark on Indian society.
A champion of social justice and equality— Shri. Dhankhar will continue to inspire upcoming generations.
