Jagdeep Dhankhar warns against political narratives, calls them a ‘chakravyuh’ hard to escape after resignation
Former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar warned against falling into narratives, pointing out that getting out of "chakravyuh" would be difficult in his first public address after unexpectedly resigning in July.
Aadrika Tayal 
New Delhi (India) November 23: On his first public stage since resigning as Vice President of India in July 2025, Jagdeep Dhankhar addressed the book launch of 'Hum Aur Yah Vishva' in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, on Friday (November 21, 2025). He also forewarned about the dangers of being caught in narratives, calling it chakravyuh (complex labyrinth) that's hard to escape. Dhankhar was careful to note that he was not referencing his own situation, though people were speculating about his resignation and health reasons.
Dhankhar cautions nation about the perils of narratives amid rapid advances in AI
Dhankhar tried to raise awareness for upcoming disruptive technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, machine learning, describing a civilisational contestation, and that India had to draw from its deepest cultural and spiritual strengths. He bemoaned the fact that some had drifted from morality, spirituality and intellect.
Dhankhar joked that his speaking engagement had gone for long, noting that he would fulfill his responsibilities and not hurry to get out, nor should he abandon them to take a certain flight. The well-received banter from Dhankhar created applause and showed his commitment amidst his troublesome personal and political issues.
Navigating Political Narratives: The ‘Chakravyuh’ Metaphor
Dhankhar's comments highlight a veteran leader attempting to navigate complex political narratives while trying to reinforce that India must preserve its moral and cultural heritage in the middle of modern challenges. The ambiguity of his statements emphasises the difficulties of being caught in a political labyrinth and the necessity of maintaining ones' unwavering commitment to duty, lifelong or otherwise.
Opposition criticises BJP for protocol breach as no state leaders receive Dhankhar
Interestingly, no one from the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government or the state BJP was present to welcome Dhankhar at the airport, which prompted trenchant criticism from former chief minister Digvijaya Singh, who remarked that the BJP was neglecting to follow protocol for a former Vice President.
Dhankhar also resigned for 'health reasons," which surprised many political observers, and the opposition mocked him for failing to speak publicly after his resignation. His resignation letters offered gratitude to the President, Droupadi Murmu, and the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi and expressed pride in India during his term as it experienced its economic growth.
