B. D. Jatti: Vice President of India (1974–1979)

Basappa Danappa Jatti, commonly known as B. D. Jatti, served as the fifth Vice President of India from 1974 to 1979. A veteran politician, administrator, and legal expert, Jatti’s tenure came during one of the most politically sensitive periods in Indian history — including the Emergency (1975–1977) and the dramatic changes in leadership that followed. As Vice President, and briefly as Acting President of India, B. D. Jatti played a crucial role in upholding constitutional stability and democratic processes during a time of deep national uncertainty.

Early Life and Education

B. D. Jatti was born on 27 September 1912 in Savalgi, in present-day Karnataka. He belonged to a humble Lingayat family and pursued his education in law. With a keen interest in public service and justice, he entered politics at a young age. His background in law and his connection to grassroots politics gave him a strong foundation in understanding both constitutional principles and the needs of the common people.

Political Career Before Vice Presidency

• Before becoming Vice President, B. D. Jatti held several significant positions:
• Chief Minister of Mysore State (now Karnataka) from 1958 to 1962.
• Lieutenant Governor of Pondicherry (1968).
• Governor of Odisha (1972–1974).
• Held various ministerial roles, including in the Union Cabinet.

Throughout his career, Jatti earned a reputation for being honest, humble, and efficient — qualities that later defined his conduct as Vice President.

Vice President of India (1974–1979)

In August 1974, B. D. Jatti was elected as the 5th Vice President of India, succeeding Gopal Swarup Pathak. As Vice President, he also served as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India’s Parliament. His term coincided with a particularly difficult time in Indian politics, which included the imposition of the Emergency by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975, and the subsequent victory of the Janata Party in the 1977 general elections.

Contributions as Vice President

1. Chairman of the Rajya Sabha

Jatti carried out his duties in the Rajya Sabha with neutrality, patience, and fairness. He ensured that discussions in the House remained within the bounds of parliamentary discipline, even during politically turbulent times. His legal knowledge and experience in administration allowed him to maintain balance between diverse political voices, while always upholding the dignity of Parliament.

2. Acting President of India (1977)

After the sudden death of President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed on 11 February 1977, B. D. Jatti, as Vice President, assumed office as the Acting President of India under Article 65 of the Constitution. During this brief but critical period (February to July 1977), India was still under Emergency, and political tensions were high. Jatti managed the transition with remarkable calm and constitutional adherence. He ensured the smooth conduct of the 1977 general elections, which led to the defeat of Indira Gandhi and the formation of the first non-Congress government under Morarji Desai. His role during this time earned widespread praise for impartiality, restraint, and adherence to democratic values.

3. Constitutional Integrity

Despite pressure from various political sides, Jatti remained committed to the Constitution. For instance, he refused to approve hasty ordinances or decisions that were not in line with legal or democratic norms, especially during the interim period between presidents.

Legacy

B. D. Jatti retired from public office in 1979 after completing his full term as Vice President. Though soft-spoken and modest, he made a significant impact on Indian democracy by maintaining constitutional discipline during one of its most volatile phases. His life and career exemplify the role of a true constitutional guardian — one who stands firm, not for personal power, but for the rule of law and democratic values.

Conclusion

B. D. Jatti’s tenure as the Vice President of India (1974–1979), including his brief service as Acting President, marked a critical chapter in India’s political history. With humility, wisdom, and deep respect for the Constitution, he guided the nation through one of its darkest and most transformative periods. He remains a model of constitutional duty and personal integrity, and his legacy continues to inspire those who serve in high public office.