In a major political development, leaders of the INDIA bloc defended their decision to bring a no-confidence motion against Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar, accusing him of disrupting the House and compromising its dignity. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge termed Dhankhar as the “biggest government spokesperson” and claimed his actions had damaged the pride of the nation.
Congress’s Criticism
Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Kharge emphasized that the motion was not a personal attack but a step to protect democracy. He alleged that Dhankhar’s conduct had made the Chairman himself the primary source of disruptions in the Rajya Sabha. “For the first time since 1952, we are witnessing such a partisan approach by a Rajya Sabha Chairman, which has forced us to act,” Kharge stated.
He further explained that no Vice President before Dhankhar had faced such allegations, as those holding the position historically remained unbiased and governed the House in accordance with established rules.
Motion Details
The INDIA bloc submitted a formal notice seeking Dhankhar’s removal as Vice President and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. As per parliamentary procedure, a 14-day notice is mandatory before the motion is tabled and requires approval from the Deputy Chairman.
This marks the first-ever attempt to remove a Vice President since the inception of the Rajya Sabha in 1952. Previously, three no-confidence motions have been brought against Lok Sabha Speakers—against G.V. Mavalankar in 1954, Hukam Singh in 1966, and Balram Jakhar in 1987. While two motions were negatived, the one against Hukam Singh was rejected due to insufficient support.
Parliamentary Arithmetic
The BJP and its allies hold 121 seats in the Rajya Sabha, while the Opposition accounts for 86 seats. Non-aligned parties like the YSRCP, BJD, AIADMK, BRS, and BSP collectively control 24 seats. BJD leader Sasmit Patra clarified that his party would remain neutral, distancing itself from the INDIA bloc’s motion.
Historical and Political Context
Kharge underscored the rarity of such a motion, highlighting that Vice Presidents traditionally operated above political disputes. This unprecedented move is seen as a culmination of growing tensions between the Opposition and Dhankhar, who has faced criticism over alleged favoritism towards the ruling party.
The opposition, led by the Congress, has cited multiple instances of verbal clashes with Dhankhar as evidence of his bias. Meanwhile, the ruling BJP has dismissed the motion as politically motivated and unlikely to gain traction.
As the debate intensifies, the move underscores the strained relations within the Upper House, with significant implications for parliamentary governance and decorum in the days ahead.