"I am also a sufferer": Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar echoes CJI Gavai's call for adherence to official protocol

May 20, 2025

NEW DELHI: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has echoed recent remarks made by Chief Justice of India Bhushan Gavai on protocol, stating that adherence to protocol is "fundamental" and must be respected across institutions.

Speaking at the launch of the book 'The Constitution We Adopted', edited by Senior Advocate Vijay Hansaria, the Vice President said, "This morning I was reminded of something which is very critical in the country and that is not for oneself. What the present Chief Justice said we must believe in protocol."

Referring to recent developments, Dhankhar said, "Chief Justice of the country and protocol is placed very high. When he indicated this, it was not personal, it was for the position he holds, and I am sure this will be kept in mind by one and all."

Chief Justice of India Bushan Gavai made the original remarks on Sunday during a felicitation ceremony organised by the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa in Mumbai's Dadar.

CJI Gavai said, "When the Chief Justice of any state visits for the first time, the CP and DG come and meet them. But when told that I came to Mumbai, they didn't come to meet me. I don't want to get into this small thing, but there is some protocol."

VP Dhankar said, "In a sense, I am also a sufferer. You have seen the photograph of the President and the Prime Minister but not of the Vice-President. Once I demit the office, I'll ensure that my successor has a photograph. But I am really beholden to the present Chief Justice for inviting attention to the people in bureaucracy, adherence to protocol is fundamental."