At the valedictory ceremony of the 6th Rajya Sabha Internship Programme, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar delivered a powerful and emotional address to young interns, urging them to become proactive stakeholders in the nation’s democratic future. Speaking to a gathering of bright minds who have experienced the inner workings of India’s highest legislative body, he painted a picture of both pride in the country’s progress and deep concern for the challenges it still faces.
Acknowledging the expansion of the internship cohort to 175, the Vice President expressed his vision of a more connected, informed citizenry. He announced plans to launch a structured digital platform providing comprehensive and authentic legislative information—from Constituent Assembly debates to current parliamentary records—making these insights easily accessible to the public.
Emphasizing India’s glorious history as a global cultural and educational leader, he reflected on how ancient institutions like Nalanda and Takshashila once attracted knowledge seekers from across the world. He spoke with conviction about India’s recent economic growth and infrastructural achievements, which have positioned it as the most aspirational nation on the planet.
However, his tone shifted to one of solemn concern as he addressed recent events that, in his view, threaten the foundation of democratic values and rule of law. He cited the delayed disclosure of a serious incident involving a judge’s residence, questioning why it took a media report to bring it into the public domain. His reflections revealed a deep unease with the apparent inaction and procedural opacity, especially in a country where ordinary citizens often face swift legal responses.
Highlighting the legal constraints and lack of clarity surrounding investigations into the judiciary, the Vice President raised thought-provoking questions about equality before law and the accountability of all institutions, including the judiciary itself. He called on the youth to remain alert, to question authority respectfully, and to uphold democratic principles with courage and reason.
He criticized the notion of unchecked judicial authority and the trend of judicial overreach into executive and legislative domains. With conviction, he questioned whether certain judicial mechanisms have bypassed constitutional mandates, particularly in reference to the formation of internal committees without parliamentary or legal sanction.
Delving into constitutional interpretation, he recounted Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s warning against granting veto power to the Chief Justice over judicial appointments. The Vice President questioned judicial reinterpretations that, over time, may have strayed from the Constitution’s original intent. He urged students to be critical thinkers and not blindly accept established narratives—whether related to judicial doctrines like the Basic Structure or to historical events framed selectively.
His speech also reflected disappointment over missed opportunities for public discourse. Referring to a recent book release by a former judge, he lamented how easily audiences accept convenient narratives without challenging them with critical questions—particularly when these narratives ignore uncomfortable parts of history, such as the Emergency of 1975 or Operation Blue Star.
While his words carried strong critiques, they were underscored by a sincere belief in the promise of India’s youth and a deep respect for the Constitution. He passionately defended the sanctity of constitutional roles, particularly that of the President, expressing concern that judicial overreach may be undermining the executive authority vested by the people.
In closing, the Vice President voiced his pride in India’s global stature and economic momentum, while cautioning against complacency. He called on the youth to safeguard the nation’s democratic values through vigilance, empathy, and a commitment to truth. His address, both sobering and inspiring, was a clarion call for integrity, responsibility, and an awakened citizenry that cherishes and defends its Constitution.
