Kharge Slams BJP After Dhankhar Resignation Alleges Deepening Institutional Control

NEW DELHI — Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday launched a sharp attack on the ruling BJP, calling Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s sudden resignation “the biggest example yet” of the party’s systematic grip over constitutional institutions.

Speaking to reporters in the national capital, Kharge alleged that the move was not just surprising but “highly coordinated,” hinting at a larger political strategy at play. “This is not just a resignation — it is a red flag. It shows how institutions that are meant to function independently are being turned into extensions of the ruling party,” he said.

While Dhankhar’s resignation letter has not been made public in full, sources suggest the decision was made following closed-door discussions with senior BJP leadership. Speculation is rife that Dhankhar may be tapped for a key organizational or gubernatorial role ahead of upcoming state elections — or even play a role in a central reshuffle.

Kharge, however, saw it differently. “One after another, people holding top constitutional posts are being co-opted or moved like chess pieces. This undermines democracy, weakens checks and balances, and erodes public trust in institutions,” he added.

The BJP dismissed Kharge’s remarks as “predictable political noise.” Party spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi said, “Every time someone resigns or is appointed, Congress sees a conspiracy. This is the same party that sat on institutional appointments for years and now preaches integrity.”

Dhankhar, a former West Bengal Governor and a veteran lawyer, had assumed office as Vice President in August 2022. Known for his outspoken remarks and assertive stance in the Rajya Sabha, he often clashed with the Opposition on procedural matters.

His resignation marks a rare departure in the middle of a tenure and has stirred speculation not just in political circles but also among constitutional experts.

As the nation waits for clarity on Dhankhar’s next move, the war of words between the BJP and the Opposition has only intensified — underscoring the deepening tension over the balance between government power and institutional independence.