Former India Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has once again hit the headlines, but this time for an entirely different reason. Weeks after resigning from office, Dhankhar has officially applied for a pension as an ex-Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for which he is entitled. The action has triggered curiosity and controversy, as it opens up the larger debate on pensions for politicians.
A Decade-Long Career Spanning Multi-roles
Prior to his appointment as Vice President in 2022, Dhankhar has occupied many important political positions throughout his decades-long career. He represented Rajasthan in the Lok Sabha in the late 1980s and subsequently served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly. Most recently, he was made the Governor of West Bengal, whose term witnessed his regular confrontations with the state government.
His request for MLA pension is thus not out of place, as it is an automatic right for retired legislators. However, considering his eminence and the dignity that accrues to the Vice President’s office, the action has caused public notice.
Pension Entitlements and Rules
According to state laws, retired MLAs are entitled to a pension each month along with certain allowances. The pension is based on the duration of service as well as the state provisions. Dhankhar, having been an MLA in Rajasthan, is eligible for the pension under the rules of the state legislature.
Though critics tend to ask whether senior leaders should receive pensions upon serving in top constitutional positions, others believe that pensions are not a right but an entitlement for individuals who have served in elected legislatures.
Political and Public Response
Up to now, political quarters have been soundly silent on Dhankhar’s move, with no major party spilling critical or supportive words against it. The move, though, has initiated talks on social media, with most of the citizens engaging in debates on whether politicians should accept several pensions for various positions or forgo them voluntarily for the sake of public opinion.
While some praised Dhankhar for not asking for special treatment but going through proper process, others viewed the decision as symbolic of the depth to which pension privileges are ingrained in Indian politics.
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