Ex-Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has applied for MLA pension, citing his previous tenure in Rajasthan Assembly. Here’s what we know.
Jagdeep Dhankhar, who recently resigned from the Vice Presidency of India, has applied for his pension as a former Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) of Rajasthan. After years of serving in various high-profile roles—Governor of West Bengal, Union Minister, MP, MLA—Dhankhar now seeks resumption of a pension that had been suspended during his tenure in constitutional posts. His case underscores questions about political privileges, institutional continuity, and public perception.
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Background: Dhankhar’s Political Journey
Jagdeep Dhankhar, born in 1951 in Rajasthan, has had a varied political career:
- MLA for Kishangarh (Rajasthan) from 1993–1998. Wikipedia
- Lok Sabha MP (1989–1991) and Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs. Wikipedia
- Governor of West Bengal, 2019–2022. Wikipedia
- Vice President of India, from August 2022 to his abrupt resignation in July 2025 citing health concerns. IndiatimesWikipedia
His resignation triggered both political speculation and institutional interest—as former holders of high constitutional offices become eligible for various post-retirement entitlements.
Pension Application Details
MLA Pension
- Dhankhar served as an MLA from 1993 to 1998, which initially entitled him to a standard legislative pension of ₹35,000/month. Since he is now 74, a 20% age-based increment applies, raising it to ₹42,000/month. www.ndtv.commintNavbharat TimesThe New Indian Express
- His earlier MLA pension was suspended in July 2019 upon his appointment as Governor of West Bengal, and again during his Vice Presidency. www.ndtv.com+1The New Indian Express
- Now that his resignation has been accepted, he has formally reapplied, and the Rajasthan Assembly Secretariat has initiated processing—with the pension backdated to the date of his resignation. www.ndtv.commintThe New Indian Express
Multiple Entitlements
In addition to the MLA pension, Dhankhar qualifies for two other central benefits:
- As a former Member of Parliament (one term), he is entitled to ₹45,000/month pension. India Todaymint
- As a former Vice President, he is eligible for half his official salary (c. ₹2 lakh/month), along with housing (Type VIII bungalow), secretarial staff, medical support, and other privileges. IndiatimesWikipedia+1
Note: No pension applies for his term as Governor of West Bengal, though he may claim secretarial reimbursement (₹25,000/month). India Todaymint
In total, Dhankhar’s possible monthly entitlements may exceed ₹3 lakh, combining MLA, MP, and Vice Presidential pensions along with facilities. Indiatimesmint
Rules & Procedures: Suspension and Resumption of Benefits
According to Rajasthan Assembly norms, any entitlement for a former legislator is automatically suspended when the individual holds a “position of profit” such as Governor or Vice President. Once the post is vacated, a formal application is required to resume the pension, and the Secretariat then processes it. The New Indian ExpressThe TribuneHindustan Times
Dhankhar’s case is consistent with standard procedure, albeit highlighted by his public prominence and the timing of his resignation.
Political and Public Reactions
- Congress raised questions over the abrupt nature of the resignation and the financial optics of pension claims. Jairam Ramesh suggested deeper motives behind his exit. www.ndtv.com
- Rajasthan Opposition and Jat community leaders see potential electoral implications, as Dhankhar’s outreach may influence voting blocs. www.ndtv.com
Institutional and Governance Implications
This episode opens discussions on political perks versus public perception:
- Should cumulative pensions for multiple roles be standardized or capped?
- Does ease of reactivation of entitlements blur lines between service and privilege?
- How should public institutions reconcile lending dignity to retired figures while ensuring accountability?
As tensions around institutions and their obligations continue—mirroring broader trends like court rulings limiting executive power (e.g., tariff judgments)—these questions gain urgency. Navbharat TimesThe Times of Indiamint
Conclusion
Jagdeep Dhankhar’s application for MLA pension highlights intersections of constitutional entitlement, protocol, and political optics. While procedurally valid and within legal frameworks, the convergence of multiple lucrative pensions for a single individual raises important questions about public stewardship and accountability.
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