Dhankhar attends CP Radhakrishnan oath-taking, surprises many, silences others

NEW DELHI: As PM Modi along with his ministerial colleagues gathered at the Rashtrapati Bhavan for the swearing-in ceremony of CP Radhakrishnan as the 15th Vice-President , the ceremonial hall buzzed with suspenseful anticipation — Will Jagdeep Dhankhar , the ex-VP, turn up? Dhankhar, who resigned on July 21 citing health concerns had not been seen publicly since. His absence fuelled rumours, with the opposition raising questions about his whereabouts. However, moments before the ceremony began, Dhankhar, accompanied by his wife, arrived, surprising many and silencing others.

Dhankhar appeared to be relaxed. Smiling and looking jovial, the former VP also appeared to be healthier, engaging in lively conversations. Dhankhar was also seen walking up to home minister Amit Shah as the two exchanged “namastes”.

He chatted with his predecessor Venkaiah Naidu and greeted MPs who approached him to exchange pleasantries. A senior MP, who attended the event, said Dhankhar exchanged pleasantries with others, and stayed for the customary high tea, a move that caught many off guard.