Shankar Dayal Sharma: Vice President of India (1987–1992)

Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma was a highly respected Indian statesman, scholar, freedom fighter, and constitutional expert who served as the 8th Vice President of India from 1987 to 1992. His tenure was marked by dignity, legal wisdom, and a deep commitment to India’s democratic values. Later, he became the 9th President of India (1992–1997), but his role as Vice President laid the groundwork for his rise to the presidency and his legacy in Indian political history.

Early Life and Education

Shankar Dayal Sharma was born on 19 August 1918 in Bhopal, in the princely state of Bhopal (now in Madhya Pradesh). He came from a well-educated family and showed academic brilliance from a young age.

He pursued higher education at: University of Lucknow, Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge (UK) – where he earned a degree in law, Harvard Law School (USA) – where he completed further legal studies He was a scholar of international repute and became fluent in English, Hindi, Urdu, and Persian.

Role in the Freedom Movement

Sharma actively participated in India’s freedom struggle, particularly the Quit India Movement of 1942. The British government imprisoned him for his activities. He was committed to Gandhian principles and deeply influenced by the Indian nationalist movement.

Legal and Political Career Before Vice Presidency

• Dr. Sharma held several key positions before becoming Vice President:
• Chief Minister of Bhopal State (1952–1956)
• Union Minister for Communications
• Governor of three Indian states: Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra
• President of the Indian National Congress in 1972–73
• Member of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
• A prominent constitutional lawyer and advocate in the Supreme Court

His long and varied experience made him well-prepared for constitutional offices of the highest importance.

Vice President of India (1987–1992)

In 1987, Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma was elected as the 8th Vice President of India, succeeding R. Venkataraman, who had become President. As Vice President, Sharma served as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (the upper house of Parliament). He held this position during a politically sensitive period, with increasing regionalism, coalition politics, and debates over economic liberalization.

Contributions as Vice President

1. Presiding Over the Rajya Sabha

Dr. Sharma’s legal and academic background helped him conduct the proceedings of the Rajya Sabha with authority, fairness, and intellect. He was respected by all political parties for his non-partisan approach. He encouraged disciplined debate, upheld parliamentary procedures, and often reminded MPs of their responsibilities toward democratic governance.

2. Promoting Constitutional Values

Sharma frequently spoke about the need to protect India’s secular and democratic values, especially during times of political tension. He stressed the importance of unity, justice, and national integrity. His speeches reflected a deep understanding of the Constitution and conveyed the importance of maintaining harmony in a diverse nation.

3. Upholding Dignity of Office

Dr. Sharma maintained the dignity of the Vice President’s office with humility, scholarship, and restraint. He avoided political controversy and emphasized constitutional decorum above all.

From Vice President to President

In 1992, after completing his five-year term as Vice President, Dr. Sharma was elected as the 9th President of India. His election reflected the high regard in which he was held by leaders across the political spectrum.

As President (1992–1997), he handled a period of political instability, during which India saw multiple short-lived governments. He discharged his responsibilities with impartiality and wisdom, ensuring smooth transitions of power in line with constitutional norms.

Legacy

• Dr. Sharma was one of the most educated Presidents and Vice Presidents in Indian history.
• Known for his scholarship, simplicity, and patriotism.
• Deeply committed to public service, constitutional values, and social harmony.
• Remembered as a man of principles, who never compromised on democratic ideals.

He passed away on 26 December 1999, leaving behind a rich legacy of integrity and public service.

Conclusion

Shankar Dayal Sharma’s tenure as Vice President of India (1987–1992) stands out for its constitutional integrity, parliamentary leadership, and intellectual depth. He brought to the office not only a wealth of experience but also a moral authority rooted in the freedom movement and public life.

His journey from a freedom fighter and scholar to Vice President and then President reflects the strength of India’s democratic and constitutional framework. Dr. Sharma remains a shining example of how intellect, humility, and patriotism can define high public office.