Shiv Sena Thackeray faction leader Sanjay Raut has made a controversial statement on former Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankar, questioning the former Vice-President’s absence and whether “certain practices prevalent in Russia and China were happening in India”.
Stating that his party was considering filing a habeas corpus petition regarding Dhankhar’s absence, Raut said he spoke to Dhankhar on July 21. “He appeared in the Rajya Sabha in the morning. We had a discussion and he gave some orders. Later, the House was adjourned, and he appeared in good health then. He spoke to us, but after 6 pm, news appeared in the media that Dhankhar had quit due to health reasons,” said Raut, calling it a shocking development.
“But, since the day he resigned, he is nowhere to be seen. Where is he? What is his health condition? Who is he with? Where is he staying? Is he fine? Is he really there?,” said Raut, adding that he had doubts about his absence. “If the Vice President of the country has disappeared like this and no one had an idea about him, it is a matter of concern for the country's democracy,” Raut said. “If this kind of practice has started in India, then Rahul Gandhi and his associates should remain alert.”
He then took a dig at the BJP, stating that Russia and China had the practice of disappearing leaders and questioned whether some of “those traditions” were adopted in India. “When Uddhav Thackeray came to Delhi, Kapil Sibal met him. We discussed this issue,” he added.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar abrupt stepped down, citing the need to “prioritise health care and abide by medical advice” is said to be after a fallout with the government over his decision to admit an impeachment motion against Varma in the Rajya Sabha.