Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar recently made strong remarks regarding the influence of the judiciary in India, expressing concerns over the growing powers of the Supreme Court and its lack of accountability. His comments came on the heels of a significant Supreme Court ruling that directed the President and Governors to decide on a bill within a specific deadline. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s statements also touched on the controversy surrounding a large cash recovery at the residence of Delhi High Court judge Yashwant Varma, criticizing the slow response from the judiciary.
Speaking at an event with Rajya Sabha interns, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar highlighted the March incident involving Justice Varma, where a large sum of cash was found during a fire department operation at his residence. Despite the severity of the discovery, no FIR was registered against the judge, sparking questions about the delay and the lack of transparency. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized the double standards in the legal process, noting that while anyone in India can have an FIR registered against them, judges are exempt unless specific approval is granted within the judiciary.
The Vice President also questioned why a committee of three judges had been formed to look into the cash recovery issue, asking if this was backed by any law passed by Parliament. He pointed out that the committee’s actions were limited to making recommendations, which would not have the power to enforce any legal actions. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed concern over the slow pace of investigation, urging for speed and efficiency, especially when dealing with such sensitive issues.
In addition to his comments on the judiciary, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar also criticized a recent Supreme Court ruling that instructed the President to decide on a bill within a time-bound manner, warning that it set a dangerous precedent. He raised concerns about the judiciary acting like a “super-parliament,” performing executive functions and making legislative decisions without proper accountability. According to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, the use of Article 142 of the Constitution by the judiciary has become a tool of significant power, which he believes undermines democratic forces in the country.
