I still remember that humid Delhi morning fourteen years ago—it was the start of my journey in Parliament. Among the first dignitaries I met was the then Vice President of India, Mr. Hamid Ansari. After my swearing-in, he invited a few of us first-time MPs for an informal coffee session. That initial interaction left a lasting impression—not just because of his stature, but due to the genuine warmth he extended.
Mr. Hamid Ansari’s career is the definition of distinction—Chief of Protocol to the Government of India, Ambassador to Afghanistan, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, High Commissioner to Australia, and Permanent Representative to the United Nations. Kolkata-born and cricket-loving, Mr. Ansari was also a wicket-keeper batsman in college. Interestingly, he introduced cricket to staff at the Indian Embassy in Iran, helping popularize the game there.
As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, he was instrumental in making subtle yet impactful procedural changes. One of his key innovations was the informal morning coffee meeting—held daily between 10:30 and 10:55 AM during parliamentary sessions—with party whips and floor leaders. This created a much-needed consensus mechanism across party lines. He also made it a principle that no bill would be passed amid chaos or shouting, preserving the sanctity of legislative discussion.
Perhaps his most practical reform came in 2014, when he reversed the order of Zero Hour and Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha. This allowed urgent public issues to be addressed first, minimizing disruption to Question Hour—an insightful adjustment now considered standard.
Mr. Ansari described his role aptly: “The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is not a player but an umpire in a cricket match.” He maintained this neutrality till the very end. Today, he enjoys a peaceful retirement in Delhi and has authored several insightful books.
My next close experience was with the dynamic Mr. M. Venkaiah Naidu, India’s thirteenth Vice President. A seasoned parliamentarian and minister across multiple portfolios—Rural Development, Urban Development, I&B, and Parliamentary Affairs—Mr. Naidu brought his trademark wit and deep knowledge to the House.
One cannot forget that on September 20, 2020—the day the controversial Farm Laws were rushed through Parliament—Mr. Naidu chose not to preside. Born into a farming family himself, perhaps that decision speaks volumes about his empathy.
Whether engaging with government or opposition leaders, Mr. Naidu maintained a consistent and respectful tone. He welcomed us into his official residence with authentic Andhra hospitality—credit also to Mrs. Usha Naidu, who ensured those evenings were memorable. I still recall him joking, “I may be the chief outside, but at home, she’s the Home Minister.”
Mr. Naidu’s humor was a defining trait. On Indian students studying abroad: “Learn, earn, and return.” When asked about presidential aspirations, he quipped, “I’m happy being Ushapati,” referencing his wife. On politics, his infamous “The Left can never be right” line earned both laughs and headlines.
Yet, behind the humor was depth—he was visibly emotional when the House discussed sentimental or national issues. His ability to blend warmth with statesmanship was truly admirable.
The current and fourteenth Vice President, Mr. Jagdeep Dhankhar, deserves a column of his own. As his tenure continues to unfold, it brings with it a unique energy and legal precision reflective of his background. But that is a story for another day.
Conclusion:
Through my years in Parliament, I have had the rare privilege of observing three Vice Presidents up close. Each brought a distinct personality, legacy, and leadership style to the role. From Hamid Ansari’s diplomatic finesse and institutional reform, to Venkaiah Naidu’s affable charisma and parliamentary wisdom—India’s second-highest office has been graced by individuals whose contributions go well beyond ceremony.
