Former VP M. Venkaiah Naidu elected president of Atal Smriti Nyas Society

The election of former Vice President of India, M. Venkaiah Naidu, as the president of the Atal Smriti Nyas Society, is a significant development that intertwines the legacies of two prominent Indian political figures. This event offers a rich ground for understanding the dynamics of political leadership, the preservation of historical memory, and the role of former constitutional functionaries in India's public life.

To truly grasp the importance of this appointment, one must first delve into the background of the individual whose memory the society seeks to preserve: Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Vajpayee was a towering figure in Indian politics, serving three terms as Prime Minister, most notably from 1998 to 2004. A gifted orator, poet, and statesman, he was known for his moderate political stance, often described as a 'right man in the wrong party' by his detractors, and a 'liberal mask' by some critics. His tenure saw significant events like the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, which established India as a nuclear power, and the Kargil War in 1999. He initiated the ‘Golden Quadrilateral’ project, a massive highway network, and pursued peace initiatives with Pakistan, including the Lahore Bus Diplomacy in 1999. Vajpayee’s legacy is marked by his ability to forge consensus, lead coalition governments, and maintain a dignified approach to politics, earning him respect across the political spectrum. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, in 2015.

M. Venkaiah Naidu, on the other hand, is a seasoned politician who rose through the ranks of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He served as a Union Minister in various capacities, including Minister for Rural Development and Minister for Urban Development, before being elected as the 13th Vice President of India in 2017. As Vice President and ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Naidu upheld the dignity of the constitutional office, often emphasizing parliamentary decorum and the importance of debate. His deep understanding of parliamentary procedures and his vast experience in public life make him a fitting choice to lead an organization dedicated to a statesman like Vajpayee.

The Atal Smriti Nyas Society, as its name suggests (Smriti Nyas means 'Memory Trust'), is dedicated to commemorating and preserving the memory and legacy of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Such organizations typically engage in activities like organizing seminars, publishing books, establishing research centres, and instituting awards to promote the ideals and contributions of the leader they honour. By electing a former Vice President like Naidu, the society gains immense credibility and a prominent public face, ensuring its objectives receive wide attention and support.

This development matters for India on several fronts. Firstly, it underscores the importance of preserving political legacies. In a rapidly evolving political landscape, remembering the contributions of past leaders helps in shaping national identity and providing historical context for present challenges. Vajpayee's principles of 'raj dharma' (the ethics of governance) and his approach to coalition politics offer valuable lessons for contemporary governance. Secondly, it highlights the continued public service role of former constitutional functionaries. While the Vice President's office is non-partisan, post-tenure, individuals like Naidu can contribute to public life through non-governmental platforms, lending their experience and stature to causes they believe in. Thirdly, for the BJP, this move reinforces its ideological lineage, connecting current leadership with one of its most revered founders and Prime Ministers. It helps in projecting a consistent narrative of leadership and values.

From a legal and constitutional perspective, the formation and functioning of such societies are primarily governed by the **Societies Registration Act, 1860**, or similar state-level acts. These acts provide the legal framework for the registration and regulation of non-profit organizations in India. Furthermore, the fundamental right to form associations, enshrined in **Article 19(1)(c)** of the Indian Constitution, underpins the existence of such bodies. While the Vice President's office itself is defined by **Articles 63 to 71** of the Constitution, Naidu's current role is as a private citizen, exercising his right to association, albeit with the added weight of his former constitutional status.

Looking ahead, the Atal Smriti Nyas Society, under Naidu's leadership, is likely to become a more active platform for discussions on Vajpayee's political philosophy, his economic policies, and his foreign policy initiatives. This could lead to a deeper academic engagement with his contributions and potentially influence public discourse on governance, national security, and international relations. It will also serve as a beacon for aspiring politicians, encouraging them to study the life and work of a leader known for his consensus-building approach and commitment to democratic values. The society's activities could also involve youth outreach programs, aiming to educate younger generations about India's political history and the ideals of its leaders, thereby fostering a sense of civic responsibility and national pride.