Lucknow: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar addressed the launch event of Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel’s book “Chunautiyan Mujhe Pasand Hain” (I Like Challenges) in Lucknow on Thursday. Speaking as the chief guest, he said that he enjoys challenges and considers fulfilling constitutional responsibilities as his top priority – something that cannot be compromised.
He shared an anecdote from the event, saying, “Just a while ago, I was told, ‘You too won’t get the book for free.’ I replied, I’m not used to taking anything for free.” He added that the toughest challenges often come from within—those that cannot be spoken about, have no logic or link to national progress, but are connected to politics. “Even I, Your Excellency Governor, have been a victim of such challenges,” he said.
Dhankhar said that whenever there are difficulties, one must turn to the wisdom of ancient Indian texts like the Vedas, Gita, Ramayana, and Mahabharata. “Even if challenges make you feel helpless or afraid to speak, one must never deviate from the path of duty,” he said.
Referring to recent painful events, he stressed the principle that every person is innocent until proven guilty. He said, “In a democracy, the idea of innocence holds great value. But if a crime shocks the public, it cannot be hidden. Justice must be done through the law.”
Expressing concern over remarks targeting constitutional positions, he said, “In our Constitution, the roles of the President and Governor are the highest. The oath they take is not just to follow the Constitution, but to protect and serve it.”
He recalled that Uttar Pradesh was once the center of a major conflict between the legislature and judiciary. Emphasizing harmony, he said constitutional institutions must work with respect for each other, within their own limits. “Our Constitution is based on cooperation, not conflict. Institutions must not try to perform each other’s roles,” he added.
Dhankhar said that the real strength of a democracy lies in the freedom of expression and healthy debate. “A country can only be called democratic when both expression and dialogue flourish together. When expression turns into ego and there is no room to listen to others, it becomes harmful,” he said.
He appealed for better coordination between the legislature, judiciary, and executive, saying that all institutions should work together for the progress of the country.
The event was also attended by his wife, Sudesh Dhankhar, Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Cabinet Minister Suresh Khanna, and other dignitaries.
