Ramaswamy Venkataraman: Vice President of India (1984–1987)

Ramaswamy Venkataraman was an eminent Indian statesman, lawyer, and freedom fighter who served as the seventh Vice President of India from 1984 to 1987. With a distinguished career in law, politics, and public administration, Venkataraman brought experience, intellect, and dignity to the office of Vice President. His tenure came during a sensitive time in Indian politics, marked by leadership transitions and challenges to national unity. Later, he went on to become the eighth President of India (1987–1992), but his role as Vice President laid the foundation for his rise to the highest constitutional post.

Early Life and Education

Ramaswamy Venkataraman was born on 4 December 1910 in Rajamadam, a village in present-day Tamil Nadu. He studied at Madras Christian College and later earned a degree in law from Law College, Madras. As a young lawyer, he was deeply influenced by the freedom movement and joined the Indian National Congress. He actively participated in the Quit India Movement (1942) and was imprisoned by the British. His early years were marked by idealism, a deep sense of nationalism, and a strong belief in democratic values.

Career Before Vice Presidency

• Before becoming Vice President, R. Venkataraman held many important roles, including:
• Member of the Provisional Parliament after independence.
• Served in the Constituent Assembly that drafted the Indian Constitution.
• Held key ministerial portfolios: Minister of Finance, Minister of Defence, Minister of Industries

He also represented India at various international forums, including the United Nations and International Labour Organization. His administrative experience and diplomatic skills made him one of the most respected leaders of post-independence India.

Vice President of India (1984–1987)

In August 1984, R. Venkataraman was elected as the 7th Vice President of India, succeeding Mohammad Hidayatullah. As Vice President, he also served as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Upper House of Parliament).

His election came during a difficult political period, with rising communal tensions, economic challenges, and the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in October 1984. Despite the instability, Venkataraman remained a steady and respected presence in the nation’s political and constitutional life.

Key Contributions as Vice President

1. Chairmanship of Rajya Sabha

As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Venkataraman conducted proceedings with fairness, intelligence, and firmness. He upheld the dignity of the House and ensured that debates remained focused and respectful. His vast experience in parliamentary affairs helped him manage heated debates, constitutional matters, and procedural issues with calm authority.

2. A Voice of Constitutional Values

Venkataraman was known for his deep respect for the Constitution. As Vice President, he emphasized the importance of parliamentary democracy, secularism, and rule of law. His speeches and interventions often highlighted the responsibilities of elected representatives and the need to protect India’s democratic institutions.

3. Preparation for Presidency

His term as Vice President served as a stepping stone to his eventual presidency. During this time, he built broad bipartisan support and was seen as a non-controversial and widely respected leader — qualities that led to his unanimous election as President of India in 1987.

Later Role as President

In 1987, R. Venkataraman was elected the eighth President of India, succeeding Giani Zail Singh. As President, he dealt with several political transitions, including the fall of Rajiv Gandhi’s government and the emergence of coalition politics. He completed a full five-year term as President, remembered for his dignity, impartiality, and constitutional correctness.

Legacy

• R. Venkataraman’s contributions to Indian public life span over five decades. His legacy includes:
• Being part of the freedom movement.
• Serving in every branch of government: legislature, executive, and judiciary (as a member of constitutional bodies).
• Upholding constitutional democracy through turbulent times.
• He passed away on 27 January 2009, leaving behind a legacy of public service, patriotism, and legal acumen.

Conclusion

R. Venkataraman’s tenure as Vice President of India (1984–1987) was marked by wisdom, experience, and a deep respect for democratic processes. He played a stabilizing role in the Rajya Sabha and ensured that the upper house functioned effectively during a politically complex period.

His elevation from Vice President to President stands as a testament to the respect he commanded across the political spectrum. Venkataraman remains a shining example of how experience, integrity, and commitment to constitutional principles can shape the highest offices of a democratic nation.