Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar defended the concept of reservation on Sunday, calling it “the conscience of the Constitution.” He also criticized those who oppose reservation and questioned the delay in honoring Babasaheb Ambedkar and implementing the Mandal Commission report.
Criticism of Anti-Reservation Sentiment
Speaking at the inauguration of the Samvidhan Mandir (Constitution Temple) at Elphinstone Technical High School & Junior College, Dhankhar criticized the opposition to reservation. He stated, “Reservation is affirmative action, not negative. It aims to bring about social equality and address inequities. It supports those who are crucial to our society, rather than depriving others of opportunities.”
Dhankhar condemned individuals who criticize reservation and promote ending it while holding constitutional positions. He labeled their views as a “frontal attack on democratic constitutional values.”
Concerns About Constitutional Respect
Dhankhar also took issue with the superficial display of the Constitution. He remarked, “The Constitution should not be flaunted as a mere book. It must be respected, read, and understood.” He criticized those who present the Constitution superficially without a genuine understanding or respect for its essence.
Dhankhar reflected on historical issues, questioning why Babasaheb Ambedkar did not receive the Bharat Ratna until 1990. He also pointed out the lack of action on the Mandal Commission report during the ten years of Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi’s tenures.
Historical Reflections and Constitutional Values
Dhankhar recalled Prime Minister Nehru’s anti-reservation stance, quoting Nehru’s dislike for reservations. He urged the younger generation to remember the Emergency period, calling June 25, 1975, “the darkest chapter of our democracy.”
Highlighting the significance of the Constitution, Dhankhar emphasized how it empowers individuals from ordinary backgrounds to reach high office. He urged all state organs—judiciary, legislature, and executive—to work within their limits and ensure the success of the Constitution’s fundamental spirit.
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