Ex-Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar once got Salman Khan bailed out in high-profile court case 

Jagdeep Dhankhar, a name that resonates with both legal prowess and political acumen, has recently made headlines following his resignation as the Vice President of India, citing health reasons. His journey from a senior advocate to the second-highest constitutional authority in the country is a testament to his multifaceted career. This article delves into Dhankhar’s legal career, his notable involvement in high-profile cases, particularly the Salman Khan blackbuck poaching case, and his tenure as Vice President, highlighting his contributions and the challenges he faced.

Early Life and Education

Born on May 18, 1951, in the small town of Kithana in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, Jagdeep Dhankhar’s early life was marked by a strong emphasis on education. He completed his schooling in Rajasthan before pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Rajasthan. Following this, he obtained a law degree from the University of Delhi, where he honed his skills in legal reasoning and advocacy. Dhankhar’s academic background laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors in law and politics.

Legal Career

Dhankhar began his legal career in 1979, quickly establishing himself as a formidable advocate in the Rajasthan High Court. His reputation grew as he took on various high-profile cases, showcasing his ability to navigate complex legal issues. He was known for his meticulous preparation and persuasive arguments, which earned him respect among peers and clients alike.

One of the most notable cases in which Dhankhar played a significant role was the 1998 blackbuck poaching case involving Bollywood actor Salman Khan. This case not only brought Dhankhar into the limelight but also highlighted the intersection of celebrity culture and legal proceedings in India.

The Blackbuck Poaching Case

In September 1998, Salman Khan, along with his co-actors Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Neelam, and Tabu, was accused of killing two blackbucks in Kankani village, Rajasthan, during the filming of the movie “Hum Saath Saath Hain.” The Bishnoi community, known for its reverence for wildlife, filed a complaint against the actors, alleging illegal hunting of an endangered species protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.

Jagdeep Dhankhar was brought on board as Salman Khan’s legal counsel during the initial stages of the case. His involvement was crucial, as he was the first lawyer to argue for Khan’s bail after the actor’s arrest by the Jodhpur Police. Dhankhar’s legal strategy focused on questioning the credibility of the investigation and the reliability of witness statements. He argued that the timeline of events presented by the villagers was inconsistent and raised doubts about why no immediate action was taken against the actors if they were indeed guilty.

In court, Dhankhar emphasized Salman Khan’s cooperation with the police during his arrest, asserting that this should be a significant factor in granting bail. His arguments were persuasive, and he successfully secured bail for Khan and the other accused, marking a significant victory in a case that would continue to unfold over the years.

Transition to Politics

After a successful legal career, Jagdeep Dhankhar transitioned into politics, joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His political journey began in earnest when he was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Rajasthan in 2003. Dhankhar’s legal background and experience in public service made him a valuable asset to the party.

In 2019, he was nominated as the Vice President of India, a position that placed him in the upper echelons of Indian politics. As Vice President, Dhankhar was not only a constitutional authority but also the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of Parliament. His role involved presiding over sessions, maintaining decorum, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the house.

Tenure as Vice President

During his tenure as Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar faced several challenges, including navigating the complexities of parliamentary proceedings and addressing issues related to governance and public policy. He was known for his articulate speeches and his commitment to upholding the values enshrined in the Constitution of India.

Dhankhar’s approach to his role was marked by a focus on transparency and accountability in governance. He often emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration among political parties to address pressing national issues. His tenure also saw him engaging with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, educational institutions, and international delegations, to promote India’s interests on the global stage.

Controversies and Criticism

Despite his accomplishments, Dhankhar’s tenure was not without controversy. His outspoken nature and willingness to challenge established norms sometimes drew criticism from political opponents. Some accused him of being overly partisan, while others questioned his handling of certain parliamentary proceedings. However, Dhankhar remained steadfast in his commitment to his principles, often reiterating the importance of upholding democratic values.

Resignation and Legacy

In October 2023, Jagdeep Dhankhar announced his resignation as Vice President, citing health reasons. His departure from the position marked the end of a significant chapter in his career. Dhankhar’s legacy as a legal luminary and a political figure will be remembered for his contributions to the judiciary and his efforts to uphold the Constitution.

As he steps away from the political arena, Dhankhar leaves behind a complex legacy that reflects the challenges and triumphs of a life dedicated to public service. His journey from a small-town advocate to the Vice President of India serves as an inspiration for many aspiring lawyers and politicians.

Conclusion

Jagdeep Dhankhar’s career is a remarkable narrative of resilience, dedication, and service. From his early days as a legal advocate to his tenure as Vice President, he has navigated the intricacies of law and politics with skill and determination. His involvement in high-profile cases, particularly the Salman Khan blackbuck poaching case, showcased his legal acumen and ability to handle complex issues. As he resigns from his position, Dhankhar’s contributions to Indian society will continue to resonate, reminding us of the vital role that law and politics play in shaping the nation’s future.