NEW DELHI: Subhash C Kashyap, the renowned constitutional expert and former secretary general of the Lok Sabha, passed away at his residence due to a cardio-pulmonary arrest on Thursday morning. He was 97 years old. Kashyap was widely respected for his encyclopaedic knowledge of constitutional law and parliamentary affairs, making him the go-to person for politicians, bureaucrats, and journalists. His books on Parliament became bestsellers and mandatory reading for students of political science and law.
Career and Contributions
Kashyap served as the secretary general of the Lok Sabha from 1984 to 1990, but his association with Parliament spanned over three and a half decades. According to former Prasar Bharati chairman A Surya Prakash, who extensively reported on Parliament as a journalist, Kashyap was the person everyone consulted on matters of parliamentary procedure, including privilege motions, anti-defection law, impeachment, and disciplining members.
Early Life and Education
Born in May 1929 in Chandpur village in the Bijnor district of the United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh), Kashyap came from a family of freedom fighters. As a teenager, he actively participated in the national struggle for independence, leading student movements in Bijnor and Meerut. He pursued higher education in Allahabad, New Delhi, Washington DC, and London. Kashyap began his professional career as a journalist, taught at the University of Allahabad, and trained as an advocate before joining Parliament.
Role as an Advisor
Kashyap was approached for advice by members of both the ruling party and the opposition. He was accessible and helpful to all. Many mediapersons consulted him during parliamentary crises involving procedures such as adjournment motions, privilege motions, or no-confidence motions.
Literary Works and Recognition
A prolific author and recipient of the Padma Bhushan, Kashyap wrote the magisterial six-volume set 'History of the Parliament of India'. President Droupadi Murmu condoled his demise, stating on X: "Through his scholarship and insight, he enriched the study of the Constitution and the evolution of our parliamentary system."
