On May 19, 2025, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar publicly supported the recent concerns raised by Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai regarding the importance of strict adherence to protocol. Speaking at a book launch event in New Delhi, Dhankhar expressed solidarity with the CJI’s call and highlighted his own experiences of protocol lapses during his tenure.

Dhankhar pointed out a significant yet often overlooked aspect of protocol — the absence of the vice-president's portrait alongside those of the president and prime minister in official and public spaces. This, he remarked, was a symbolic reflection of the vice-president’s sidelined position in many protocol matters. “You must have seen photographs of the president and the prime minister, but not of the vice-president,” he said, emphasizing how this diminishes the stature of the office. Dhankhar assured that after his term ends, he would ensure the portrait of his successor is duly displayed to avoid such sidelining in future.

His remarks came as a direct response to CJI BR Gavai’s expression of displeasure over a protocol lapse during his recent official visit to Maharashtra. Upon his arrival for a felicitation event in Mumbai, several senior officials — including the state chief secretary, director general of police, and Mumbai police commissioner — were notably absent from receiving him. The absence was seen as a breach of protocol given the stature of the CJI. However, this was quickly rectified when these officials were present during the CJI’s subsequent visit to Chaityabhoomi, the memorial of Dr. BR Ambedkar in Mumbai.

Dhankhar emphasized that the concerns raised by the CJI were not personal but about the respect for the constitutional position he holds. “Chief justice of the country and the protocol is placed very high. When he indicated this, it was not personal, it was for the position he holds,” Dhankhar said, urging all to respect such protocols in the interest of democratic governance.

The Vice-President further stressed that adherence to protocol is not merely ceremonial but a fundamental aspect of democratic functioning. It is essential that all levels of bureaucracy uphold these norms to maintain respect for constitutional offices and ensure smooth institutional functioning.

Dhankhar’s comments bring renewed focus to the ongoing discourse about protocol observance in Indian governance, highlighting the importance of respecting every constitutional post and the symbolism attached to official practices. This incident has prompted calls for clearer guidelines and stricter enforcement to avoid future lapses that can be interpreted as disrespect towards high offices.

In conclusion, Vice-President Dhankhar’s backing of CJI Gavai reflects a growing insistence among top leaders that protocol and respect for constitutional positions must be maintained rigorously. His personal admission of facing similar sidelining shows the need for systemic improvements, ensuring that all dignitaries receive their due respect, reflecting the maturity and dignity of India’s democratic institutions.

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