Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar strongly criticized Congress leader P. Chidambaram for his recent comment regarding the drafting of new criminal laws, describing it as "inexcusable" and urging Chidambaram to retract his remarks. Dhankar expressed deep dismay upon reading Chidambaram's interview where he allegedly referred to the lawmakers involved as "part-timers," implying they were not fully committed to their legislative responsibilities.
Dhankar vehemently defended the integrity and dedication of Members of Parliament (MPs), asserting that such comments insulted the wisdom of Parliament itself. He emphasized that the laws in question—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Saksha Adhiniyam—marked a significant departure from colonial legacies and were crucial in advancing justice in India.
The Vice President, also serving as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, lamented that Chidambaram and other legal luminaries did not actively participate in the parliamentary debates concerning these laws, despite their expertise and responsibilities. He criticized what he perceived as a dereliction of duty on Chidambaram's part and accused him of attempting to undermine national institutions and progress through unwarranted criticism.
Dhankar cautioned against such narratives that, in his view, seek to discredit the nation and its achievements without considering the broader implications. He called for accountability among public figures and stressed the importance of constructive engagement in parliamentary processes for the betterment of the country.
The Vice President made these remarks during his visit to Kerala, where he attended the convocation at the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) after being welcomed by Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan earlier in the day.