Tensions have been rising between Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and Opposition MPs. On August 8, Dhankhar walked out of the House during protests by Opposition members over wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024.
The INDIA bloc opposition parties are contemplating filing an impeachment notice against Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar due to his conduct. This decision follows a series of disruptions in the Rajya Sabha, including Dhankhar’s walkout on August 8 amid protests over wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024.
Tensions escalated during the recent Budget Session, which was adjourned early on August 11. The session, which began on July 22, was set to end on August 12. The discord between Dhankhar and opposition MPs was marked by multiple adjournments and a verbal clash between Dhankhar and INDIA bloc members. Additionally, a protest was raised on August 10 over BJP MP Ghanshyam Tiwari’s remarks about Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge.
Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan criticized Dhankhar’s tone, calling it unacceptable, and demanded an apology. Dhankhar’s response led to further walkouts and protests from opposition members.
Sources indicate that about 80 of the 87 opposition MPs have signed the notice for Dhankhar’s removal, but the timing of the motion is uncertain as the House is not currently in session.
Congress MP Ajay Maken criticized Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar for his alleged partisanship, stating that the Chairman should remain impartial. Maken emphasized that this sentiment is shared across all opposition parties, not just Congress.
The opposition has reportedly informed Rajya Sabha’s Leader of the House, JP Nadda, about their intention to move an impeachment motion against Dhankhar.
Historically, no impeachment or no-confidence motion has been filed against a Rajya Sabha Chairman. In 2020, a no-confidence resolution was attempted against Deputy Chairman Harivansh by 12 opposition parties, but it was rejected by Chairman Venkaiah Naidu due to procedural issues, including the lack of a proper 14-day notice.