Early Life and Academic Excellence

Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma was born on August 19, 1918, in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. He pursued higher education at St. John’s College, Agra; Allahabad University; and Lucknow University, where he earned M.A. degrees in English Literature, Hindi, and Sanskrit, consistently securing top honors. Shankar obtained his LL.M. from Lucknow University, where he again stood first. He then continued his academic journey at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge University, and earned a Ph.D. in Law. Lincoln’s Inn, London, called him to the Bar, and Harvard Law School appointed him as a Fellow. Dr. Sharma also taught law at both Lucknow University and Cambridge University.

Role in the Independence Movement

An ardent nationalist, Dr. Sharma actively participated in India’s struggle for independence. He joined the Quit India Movement and faced imprisonment for his anti-colonial activities. In 1948, he led protests against the Nawab of Bhopal’s decision to keep the state independent and chose to accede to India. Authorities arrested and sentenced him to eight months in prison for his leadership.

Political Career

Dr. Sharma began his political journey in 1950 when voters elected him to the Provisional Parliament as a member of the Indian National Congress. In 1952, he became the Chief Minister of Bhopal State, earning the distinction of being the youngest Chief Minister in India at the time. After the reorganization of states, he served in the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly from 1956 to 1971. During this time, he held several cabinet portfolios in the Madhya Pradesh government.

At the national level, voters elected him to the Lok Sabha from Bhopal in 1971. Between 1974 and 1977, he served as the Minister of Communications in Prime Minister Indira Gandhi‘s cabinet. He also led the Ministries of Human Resource Development and Education.

He later served as Governor in several states: Andhra Pradesh (1984), Punjab (1985), and Maharashtra (1986). In 1987, the Electoral College elected him unopposed as the eighth Vice President of India, a role he fulfilled until 1992.

Presidency (1992–1997)

In 1992, the nation elected Dr. Sharma as the 9th President of India, awarding him 65.86% of the electoral vote. He upheld the Constitution and defended democratic traditions throughout his presidency. He worked harmoniously with multiple prime ministers during a time of political instability and ensured that parliamentary democracy functioned smoothly.

Legacy and Death

Dr. Sharma passed away on December 26, 1999. He left behind a legacy of integrity, scholarship, and committed public service. People across India continue to remember and respect his contributions to the nation’s legal and political development.

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