Former vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar delivered his first public speech on Friday, four months after he shocked the nation by resigning from his post. He spoke at the launch of RSS leader Manmohan Vaidya’s new book Hum Aur Yeh Vishwa in Bhopal.
During his address, Dhankhar said that he always places duty above everything else. He added with a hint of humour that his “recent past” proved this point.
The comment came when someone approached him during the event to remind him that he had a flight to Delhi at 7:30 pm. Dhankhar told the audience that he still would not skip his responsibilities. “I can’t skip my duty for catching a flight, and friends, my recent past is proof of it,” he said.
Praises New Book
Dhankhar also praised Vaidya’s book. He said the work challenges long-standing claims that the RSS is an ultra-right organisation or linked to the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. According to him, these claims are not supported by facts.
He warned against falling into misleading narratives, calling them a “chakravyuh” that is hard to escape. Dhankhar said he was not referring to his own situation but speaking in general terms.
Comments on Technology and Values
Dhankhar expressed concern that some people today are drifting away from morality, spirituality, and intellectual depth. He spoke about the rise of disruptive technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Machine Learning, and the Internet of Things. He said these changes have created a global “civilizational contestation.”
According to Dhankhar, India should draw strength from its cultural heritage. “In these difficult times, there is light and hope. Our deepest inheritance can guide us,” he said.
Background: Why Dhankhar Resigned
Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned as vice president in July this year, citing health reasons. At that time, he thanked President Droupadi Murmu for her support and the strong working relationship they shared.
After his resignation, former Maharashtra governor C.P. Radhakrishnan won the vice-presidential election and took over the office in September.
