A Memorable Encounter with Hamid Ansari

Fourteen years ago, on a humid morning in Delhi, I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Hamid Ansari, the then Vice President of India. It was my first day in Parliament, and after being sworn in, Mr. Ansari invited some of us newcomers for an informal chat over coffee. This meeting marked my first interaction with someone holding such a high constitutional office. Despite his busy schedule, Mr. Ansari found time to engage with us, offering insights and encouragement. His distinguished career as a diplomat included roles such as Chief of Protocol to the Government of India, High Commissioner to Australia, and Ambassador to several countries. Lesser-known is his passion for cricket, which he introduced to the Indian Embassy staff in Iran.

Innovations in Parliamentary Procedures

As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Mr. Ansari implemented several procedural innovations. He hosted daily coffee meetings with floor leaders and chief whips to foster consensus on parliamentary proceedings. Notably, he insisted that no bill should be passed amidst chaos, ensuring thorough legislative processes. In 2014, he altered the timings of Question Hour and Zero Hour to enhance parliamentary efficiency.

Venkaiah Naidu’s Tenure and Approach

Mr. Venkaiah Naidu, another Vice President I interacted with, brought his extensive parliamentary experience to the role. Known for his straightforward communication style, he treated all members equally, whether from the government or opposition. His hospitality was notable, often hosting us with delightful Andhra cuisine prepared by Mrs. Naidu. Known for his witty remarks and emotional engagement in parliamentary debates, Mr. Naidu left a lasting impression.

Looking Ahead: Jagdeep Dhankar

The current Vice President, Mr. Jagdeep Dhankar, promises to be an intriguing subject for future reflections.