Mohammad Hidayatullah: Vice President of India (1979–1984)

Mohammad Hidayatullah was one of India’s most respected jurists, remembered for his distinguished service as the Chief Justice of India, Acting President, and later as the sixth Vice President of India from 1979 to 1984. His tenure as Vice President reflected his deep commitment to the Constitution, democratic principles, and impartial governance. A scholar, judge, and statesman, Hidayatullah’s contributions remain significant in the annals of Indian constitutional history.

Early Life and Education

Mohammad Hidayatullah was born on 17 December 1905 in Lucknow, in the then United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh), into a well-educated and aristocratic family. His father, Mirza Mohammad Hidayatullah, was a prominent Urdu poet and public figure. Hidayatullah received his early education at Nagpur, and later went to England to study at Trinity College, Cambridge, and at Inner Temple in London, where he trained in law. He returned to India as a brilliant barrister and quickly gained a reputation for legal excellence.

Judicial Career

• Appointed as a Judge of the Nagpur High Court at the young age of 38.
• Became the Chief Justice of the High Court of Madhya Pradesh in 1954.
• Elevated to the Supreme Court of India in 1958.
• Appointed the 11th Chief Justice of India in 1968, serving until 1970.

He was known for his deep understanding of constitutional law and delivered landmark judgments that shaped Indian jurisprudence. His decisions often reflected a strong defense of individual rights and the supremacy of the Constitution.

Acting President of India (1969)

When President Dr. Zakir Husain died in office in May 1969, Vice President V. V. Giri became Acting President. However, when Giri resigned to contest the presidential election, the responsibility fell to Chief Justice Hidayatullah, who became Acting President of India from 20 July 1969 to 24 August 1969.

He remains the only person in Indian history to have held the offices of:

• Chief Justice of India
• Acting President of India
• Vice President of India

Vice President of India

In 1979, Mohammad Hidayatullah was elected as the 6th Vice President of India, succeeding B. D. Jatti. As Vice President, he also served as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Upper House of Parliament). His tenure as Vice President occurred during a politically sensitive era, following the Emergency and during the time of shifting coalitions in national politics.

Contributions as Vice President

1. Chairmanship of the Rajya Sabha

As the presiding officer of the Rajya Sabha, Hidayatullah brought dignity, legal acumen, and firm but fair leadership. He ensured that debates were conducted within the framework of the Constitution and parliamentary rules. His speeches and rulings in the House reflected his judicial clarity, wit, and unwavering respect for democratic processes. He was respected by members across political lines for his neutrality and wisdom.

2. Upholding the Constitution

Hidayatullah consistently emphasized the importance of the separation of powers, rule of law, and freedom of speech. He believed the Vice President must rise above politics and act as a guardian of parliamentary democracy — a role he fulfilled with excellence.

3. Promotion of Education and Knowledge

A noted scholar and writer, Hidayatullah used his platform to promote education, legal reform, and public awareness of the Constitution. Even outside Parliament, he gave lectures and wrote extensively on constitutional issues.

Legacy

• His legal writings, especially on constitutional law, remain valuable resources for students and scholars.
• After his term, he continued to serve in academic and advisory roles.
• The Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU) in Chhattisgarh is named in his honor.
• His life exemplified intellectual brilliance, ethical leadership, and unwavering patriotism.

Conclusion

Mohammad Hidayatullah’s tenure as Vice President of India (1979–1984) was marked by wisdom, balance, and an unshakeable commitment to the Constitution. With his deep legal knowledge and commitment to democratic principles, he upheld the dignity of the Vice President’s office and contributed greatly to Indian parliamentary democracy.

Though he came from the judiciary rather than politics, his service helped bridge the two realms — law and governance — with integrity and excellence. His legacy remains a shining example of how constitutional offices should be held: with neutrality, scholarship, and unwavering dedication to the nation.