V. K. Krishna Menon, Indian lawyer, jurist, and politician, Indian Minister of Defence (d. 1974)

Vengalil Krishnan Krishna Menon (3 May 1896 – 6 October 1974) was a remarkable and often polarizing figure in Indian and global politics. An Indian academic, politician, and non-career diplomat, Menon rose to prominence as a close confidante of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, leading some to describe him as the second most powerful man in India during a crucial formative period for the nascent nation.

His contributions to India's foundational principles and international standing were immense. Menon is credited with writing the initial draft of the Preamble to the Constitution of India, a document that articulates the nation's core values. He also planted the idea for the Constituent Assembly of India, the body responsible for drafting the Constitution itself. Perhaps his most enduring legacy on the global stage is his role as the architect and the very person who coined the name of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). This significant international forum allowed newly independent nations, including India, to maintain autonomy from the major power blocs during the Cold War, championing a path of independent foreign policy.

Menon’s diplomatic footprint was extensive. He chaired the Indian delegation at the United Nations General Assembly from 1953 to 1962, a pivotal decade for international relations. He also led delegations at sessions of the United Nations Trusteeship Council from 1953 to 1956, and later to the Eighteen Nation Committee on Disarmament, underscoring India's commitment to global peace and decolonization. Domestically, he was a member of the Indian National Congress, the dominant political party of the time, and notably, he had also been a member of the British Labour Party during his years in the United Kingdom, reflecting his deep engagement with both Indian independence and progressive politics.

A Formidable Personality and Diplomat

Menon was renowned for his extraordinary eloquence and sharp intellect, though these qualities were often coupled with a forceful and, at times, highly abrasive personality. This complex character inspired both profound admiration and fervent criticism, not just within India but also across the Western world. To his staunch supporters, he was an uncompromising champion of India's sovereignty, unafraid to challenge Western imperialist perspectives on the global stage, famously quipped to have "taught the white man his place." His powerful rhetoric resonated deeply with a nation emerging from colonial rule, eager to assert its dignity and independence.

However, his confrontational style made him a figure of considerable antagonism among Western powers, who often labeled him "Nehru's evil genius." US President Dwight D. Eisenhower, for instance, once characterized him as a "menace... governed by an ambition to prove himself the master international manipulator and politician of the age." Yet, back home, figures like Indian President K.R. Narayanan eulogized him as a "truly great man." Decades after his passing, Menon continues to be remembered as an enigmatic and controversial figure, a testament to his indelible impact and the polarized views he evoked.

Early Career and International Advocacy

As a young man, Menon's intellectual prowess was evident in his role as the founding editor of the Pelican imprint of Penguin Books, a venture that brought accessible, high-quality non-fiction to a wide readership. His commitment to India's freedom was unwavering, even from abroad. He became a leading voice in the overseas wing of the Indian independence movement, establishing the India League in London. Through this platform, he aggressively campaigned within the United Kingdom itself, meticulously working to cultivate public support for India's independence, and successfully garnering the backing of influential world powers, including the Soviet Union, for the Indian cause.

In the immediate aftermath of India's independence in 1947, Menon quickly emerged as a key architect and spokesman for the nation's nascent foreign policy, further solidifying his role in shaping the non-aligned movement. His diplomatic acumen was put to the test as he headed India's crucial diplomatic missions to the United Kingdom and the United Nations. He particularly distinguished himself in critical international matters, notably during the Suez Crisis of 1956, where India, under his representation, played a significant role in advocating for a peaceful resolution and upholding international law. In 1957, Menon set an extraordinary record for the longest speech ever delivered before the U.N. Security Council, speaking for eight hours straight while passionately defending India's legitimate rights to the disputed territory of Kashmir. This epic oratorical feat earned him widespread popularity and the enduring sobriquet, "Hero of Kashmir."

Service in Independent India and Later Life

Following his impactful international assignments, Menon returned to India, where his political career continued to flourish. He was repeatedly elected to both houses of the Indian parliament, representing diverse constituencies that spanned from the bustling metropolis of Mumbai to the culturally rich regions of Bengal, and eventually to Trivandrum in his native state of Kerala, demonstrating his broad appeal and national reach.

He served in key ministerial positions, initially as a minister without portfolio, and later as the highly influential Minister of Defence. In this crucial role, he oversaw significant modernization efforts within the Indian military and spearheaded the development of the nation's indigenous military-industrial infrastructure, laying the groundwork for India's self-reliance in defence. A defining moment of his tenure was his pivotal role in spearheading the Indian annexation of Goa in 1961, bringing an end to over 450 years of Portuguese colonial rule on Indian soil.

However, his career faced a significant challenge in the wake of the 1962 Sino-Indian War. Following allegations of India's military unpreparedness and intelligence failures during the conflict, Menon resigned from his post. Despite this setback, his wisdom and experience remained valued; he continued to serve as a trusted counselor to Prime Minister Nehru, remained a respected Member of Parliament, and was regarded as an elder statesman until his death on 6 October 1974. His legacy remains a vibrant topic of discussion, reflecting his multifaceted contributions and controversial decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions about V.K. Krishna Menon

Who was V.K. Krishna Menon?

Vengalil Krishnan Krishna Menon was an influential Indian academic, politician, and non-career diplomat (1896-1974), often considered the second most powerful man in India during Jawaharlal Nehru's premiership due to his profound influence on India's foreign policy and foundational principles.

What was his connection to the Non-Aligned Movement?

Krishna Menon was a principal architect and the person who coined the name of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), a crucial international organization that allowed newly independent nations to remain neutral and pursue independent foreign policies during the Cold War.

What was his role in the Indian independence movement?

From London, he led the overseas wing of the movement by establishing the India League, vigorously campaigning within the United Kingdom for public support and rallying international backing, including from the Soviet Union, for India's freedom.

Why was he considered controversial?

Menon was known for his brilliant but often abrasive personality and confrontational diplomatic style, which earned him both immense adulation as an unapologetic champion of India and strong detraction, particularly from Western powers who saw him as challenging their established order.

What was his "longest speech" about?

In 1957, Menon delivered an eight-hour speech before the U.N. Security Council, the longest ever recorded at that time, passionately defending India's claims and rights to the disputed territory of Kashmir, earning him the moniker "Hero of Kashmir."

Why did he resign as Defence Minister?

He resigned from his position as Minister of Defence in 1962 following India's defeat in the Sino-Indian War amidst widespread allegations of military unpreparedness and strategic failures under his leadership.