'President is only a nominal head, no personal authority': Kapil Sibal slams Vice President Dhankhar

Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal has strongly responded to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s recent criticism of the Supreme Court. Sibal emphasized that the President of India functions solely on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers and has no independent authority.

Expressing his surprise and disappointment, Sibal said he was saddened to hear Dhankhar's remarks. He pointed out that in today’s environment, the judiciary remains the one institution that continues to command the trust of the nation.

Sibal criticized attempts to discredit the judiciary whenever its decisions don't align with government interests. He reminded that under Article 142 of the Constitution, the Supreme Court is empowered to ensure complete justice and its role should not be undermined.

The controversy began after Vice President Dhankhar commented that the judiciary was overstepping by directing the President on matters related to the Tamil Nadu Governor’s bill approvals. Dhankhar argued that courts must limit themselves to interpreting the Constitution under Article 145(3), rather than acting like a "super parliament."

In response, Sibal stressed that the President acts based on the cabinet's directions and that suggesting otherwise misrepresents constitutional provisions. He asserted that Dhankhar should be aware of this fundamental principle.

Highlighting the broader issue, Sibal warned that attacking the judiciary under the guise of defending democracy is a dangerous trend. He reaffirmed that constitutional safeguards like Article 142 exist precisely to protect democratic institutions from such pressures.