During the 70th Founders’ Day celebrations of the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) in New Delhi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar of India reaffirmed the nation’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and preserving the independence of its judiciary. He underscored India’s vibrant democracy and rebuffed any insinuations suggesting the country’s need for guidance on legal principles. Dhankhar emphasized the principle of “equality before the law” as integral to contemporary India, asserting that accountability now stands as a cornerstone of governance. Criticizing attempts to sidestep accountability under the pretext of human rights advocacy, he argued that such actions undermine the integrity of the legal process.
Expressing faith in India’s impartial judiciary, the Vice President questioned the rationale behind street protests in response to legal proceedings, rejecting the portrayal of wrongdoers as victims. He drew attention to the evolving nature of corruption, highlighting that it no longer leads to advancement but rather culminates in incarceration. Dhankhar adamantly dismissed any notions of leniency toward corrupt individuals, stressing the imperative of consistently upholding the rule of law.
Praising the judiciary for its people-centric approach, Dhankhar called for solidarity against attempts to undermine India’s democratic institutions. He advocated for India’s rightful representation in global decision-making bodies, including a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
