On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his disappointment to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar regarding the behavior of certain Members of Parliament (MPs) within the Parliament complex. This communication followed an incident on Tuesday when Trinamool Congress leader Kalyan Banerjee mockingly mimicked Dhankhar during an opposition protest on the Parliament stairs.
In a telephone conversation with Vice President Dhankhar, Prime Minister Modi expressed deep concern over the dramatic actions of some MPs, emphasizing the sacredness of the Parliament complex and the unfortunate nature of such behavior, particularly toward a Constitutional office like the Vice President. Modi shared his personal experience of enduring similar insults over two decades but underscored the regrettable aspect of such incidents occurring within Parliament.
Subsequently, President Droupadi Murmu, in an X post, expressed her dismay at witnessing the humiliation of the Vice President in the Parliament complex. She highlighted the importance of elected representatives freely expressing themselves within the bounds of dignity and courtesy.
Responding to the President's sentiments, Rajya Sabha Chairman Dhankhar thanked her for the kind words and the timely reminder that basic courtesies must always be upheld. He reiterated his commitment to upholding Constitutional principles despite facing insults.
During the incident on Tuesday, where Banerjee mimicked Dhankhar, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was seen recording a video. Later, Dhankhar expressed his personal distress in Rajya Sabha, pointing out that the mockery targeted his farmer and Jat backgrounds. He highlighted instances of insults and demeaning remarks directed at him through official channels.
In response to the controversy, Kalyan Banerjee defended his actions, stating that he has great respect for Dhankhar and emphasized that mimicry is a form of art. He drew attention to past instances, including the Prime Minister's mimicry in the Lok Sabha, suggesting that such acts should not be taken too seriously.
