M. A. Ayyangar, Indian lawyer and politician, 2nd Speaker of the Lok Sabha (d. 1978)

Madabhushi Ananthasayanam Ayyangar: A Pillar of Indian Parliamentary Democracy

Madabhushi Ananthasayanam Ayyangar, born on 4 February 1891 and passing away on 19 March 1978, stands as a towering figure in the annals of Indian parliamentary history. His distinguished career saw him hold the pivotal positions of the first Deputy Speaker and subsequently the Speaker of the Lok Sabha in the Indian Parliament, followed by a significant tenure as the Governor of Bihar, cementing his legacy as a multifaceted statesman and a crucial architect of independent India's democratic institutions.

Early Life, Education, and Contribution to the Freedom Struggle

Born in Thiruchanoor, a town located in the Chittoor district of what was then the Madras Presidency under British India, M. A. Ayyangar's early life laid the foundation for his future contributions. He began his professional journey as a teacher, imparting knowledge in Mathematics. His intellectual pursuits later led him to the legal profession, practicing as a lawyer from 1915 to 1950. A profound turning point in his life came with his deep inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of non-violent resistance. This inspiration propelled him into active participation in the fervent Indian Freedom Struggle, a commitment that led to his arrest and imprisonment on two separate occasions for his nationalist activities against British colonial rule.

A Distinguished Parliamentary and Public Service Career

Ayyangar's entry into the legislative arena began even before India gained independence. In 1934, he was elected as a member of the Central Legislative Assembly, the legislature of British India, showcasing his early inclination towards public service and lawmaking. Following India's independence and the establishment of its democratic framework, he continued his parliamentary journey. He was elected to the inaugural Lok Sabha, the lower house of India's bicameral Parliament, from the Tirupathi constituency in 1952. His strong popular mandate was reaffirmed when he was re-elected to the second Lok Sabha in 1956, this time representing the Chittoor constituency.

His deep understanding of parliamentary procedures and his impartial demeanor quickly earned him respect. In 1948, he was elected as the first Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha, serving alongside the inaugural Speaker, Ganesh Vasudev Mavalankar. This role was crucial in setting the precedents and conventions for the newly formed parliamentary body. Following the unfortunate demise of Speaker Mavalankar in 1956, M. A. Ayyangar was unanimously elected as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, a testament to his exemplary conduct and the trust reposed in him by all political parties. As Speaker, he served as the custodian of the rights and privileges of the House and its members, presiding over debates and ensuring the smooth functioning of parliamentary business.

A significant legislative achievement during his speakership was the passage of the Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961. This landmark social legislation, aimed at curbing the practice of dowry in India, was passed by a joint session of Parliament. A joint session is a rare constitutional mechanism invoked by the President to resolve deadlocks between the two Houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) on a bill, highlighting the contentious yet vital nature of this particular legislation under M. A. Ayyangar's leadership.

After his distinguished tenure in Parliament, M. A. Ayyangar continued his public service as the Governor of Bihar, serving from 1962 to 1967. In this constitutional role, he acted as the representative of the President in the state, overseeing the executive administration and ensuring adherence to the Constitution.

Enduring Legacy and Recognition

The profound contributions of Madabhushi Ananthasayanam Ayyangar to India's democratic framework and public life are commemorated fittingly. In 2007, a life-size bronze statue of this celebrated statesman was erected in his hometown of Tirupathi, serving as a permanent tribute to his dedicated service to the nation and his indelible mark on India's parliamentary heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions About M. A. Ayyangar

Who was Madabhushi Ananthasayanam Ayyangar?
Madabhushi Ananthasayanam Ayyangar was a prominent Indian statesman who served as the first Deputy Speaker and then the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian Parliament. He also held the gubernatorial position of Governor of Bihar.
What significant roles did M. A. Ayyangar hold in Indian politics?
M. A. Ayyangar held several key roles including Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha (1948-1956), Speaker of the Lok Sabha (1956-1962), and Governor of Bihar (1962-1967). He was also a member of the Central Legislative Assembly and actively participated in the Indian Freedom Struggle.
When did he serve as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha?
M. A. Ayyangar served as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1956 until 1962.
Which notable legislation was passed during his tenure as Speaker?
The Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961, a significant social reform legislation, was passed by a rare joint session of Parliament under M. A. Ayyangar's speakership.
Where was M. A. Ayyangar born?
He was born in Thiruchanoor, located in the Chittoor district of the then Madras Presidency, British India.
How was M. A. Ayyangar involved in the Indian Freedom Struggle?
Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, he actively participated in the Indian Freedom Struggle and was incarcerated twice for his involvement in the nationalist movement against British rule.