Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Shri Harivansh, joined the Lok Sabha Speaker in offering floral tributes to the former Speaker. Several sitting Members of Parliament, former MPs, and senior parliamentary officials were also present during the ceremony.
Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha, Shri Utpal Kumar Singh, along with other dignitaries, participated in the tribute, highlighting the institutional respect commanded by Shri Ayyangar across generations of lawmakers.
A Freedom Fighter and Parliamentary Stalwart
Born into the era of India’s freedom struggle, Shri M. Ananthasayanam Ayyangar was a veteran freedom fighter who later emerged as one of the most respected parliamentarians of independent India. His contributions spanned the most formative phases of the nation’s legislative history.
He served as a member of the Central Legislative Assembly during the colonial period and went on to play a vital role in the Constituent Assembly, where India’s Constitution was debated and drafted. His calm demeanor and deep understanding of parliamentary procedure earned him admiration from colleagues across party lines.
Key Role in India’s Early Parliaments
Shri Ayyangar was a member of the Provisional Parliament and served in the First, Second, and Third Lok Sabhas. When the First Lok Sabha was constituted in 1952, he was unanimously chosen as the Deputy Speaker, reflecting the confidence reposed in him by the House.
Before that, he had already distinguished himself as the Deputy Speaker of the Constituent Assembly (Legislative) and later the Deputy Speaker of the Provisional Parliament. His repeated selection for these roles underscored his mastery of parliamentary traditions and fairness in conducting proceedings.
Assuming the Office of Lok Sabha Speaker
Following the sudden demise of the then Lok Sabha Speaker, Shri G.V. Mavalankar, Shri Ayyangar was unanimously elected to preside over the House on March 8, 1956. His elevation came at a critical juncture when Parliament was still evolving its institutional norms.
In 1957, he was once again unanimously elected as Speaker of the Second Lok Sabha, a rare distinction that reflected the immense trust placed in his leadership. As Speaker, he was known for upholding parliamentary decorum while safeguarding the rights of all members.
Later Public Service and Legacy
Although elected to the Third Lok Sabha, Shri Ayyangar resigned soon after to take charge as the Governor of Bihar. In this constitutional role, he continued to serve the nation with the same commitment to democratic values and administrative integrity.
Shri M. Ananthasayanam Ayyangar passed away on March 19, 1978, leaving behind a legacy rooted in constitutional morality, impartiality, and dedication to public service. His life remains a guiding example for legislators and constitutional authorities.
Remembering a Pillar of Parliamentary Democracy
The tribute paid at Samvidhan Sadan served as a reminder of the foundational role played by leaders like Shri Ayyangar in strengthening India’s parliamentary democracy. His contributions continue to inspire lawmakers to uphold the spirit of debate, consensus, and constitutional propriety.