Sachchidananda Sinha made history by becoming the first temporary President of the Constituent Assembly of India. His role was pivotal in the early stages of India’s journey towards becoming a republic. This article delves into his appointment and the significance of his position.
Early Life and Education of Sachchidananda Sinha
Sachchidananda Sinha was born on 10 November 1871 in Arrah, Bengal Presidency, which is now part of Bihar. He came from a well-established Srivastava Kayastha family with a history of serving the Dumraon Raj estate. His grandfather, Bakshi Shiva Prasad Sinha, held the position of Chief Revenue Officer for the estate. Sinha’s father sent him to Patna for his early education before moving to City College, Calcutta. Later, he pursued law at Inner Temple, London, where he qualified as a barrister.
Early Career of Sachchidananda Sinha
Returning from London, Sinha began advocating for a separate province for Bihar. His efforts led to the creation of the Bihar and Orissa Province in 1912. Professionally, Sinha started his career as an advocate in the Calcutta High Court in 1893 and later practiced at the Allahabad High Court. During this period, he managed the Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Public Library, a role that helped shape his career.
Sachchidananda Sinha – Political and Legislative Roles
Sinha was a significant figure in Indian politics, initially aligning with the Indian National Congress from 1899 to 1920. He was active in the Home Rule League Movement and served as a member of the Imperial Legislative Council from 1910 to 1920. After the Government of India Act 1919 established the Central Legislative Assembly, Sinha became its first Deputy President in 1921. He also served as President of the Bihar and Orissa Legislative Council and was appointed as the Finance Member of the Government of Bihar and Orissa, marking a notable first for an Indian.
Contributions of Sachchidananda Sinha to Education
As an educator, Sinha was a vice-chancellor of Patna University from 1936 to 1944. He established the Sinha Library in 1924 in memory of his wife, Radhika. His efforts in education and library sciences left a lasting impact on the region.
Sachchidananda Sinha as First Temporary President of the Constituent Assembly of India
On 9 December 1946, Sinha was appointed as the temporary President of the Constituent Assembly of India due to his seniority, following the French practice. He played a crucial role in the initial stages of drafting the Indian Constitution.
Sachchidananda Sinha – Legacy and Honors
Sachchidananda Sinha’s contributions are remembered through various institutions named in his honor, such as Sachchidanand Sinha College in Aurangabad, established in 1943. He passed away on 6 March 1950 in Patna. His legacy was further highlighted in January 2015 when US President Barack Obama was presented with the first telegram sent from the US to India, sent by then acting Secretary of State Dean Acheson to Sinha.
Literacy Contributions of Sachchidananda Sinha
In addition to his political and educational achievements, Sinha was a journalist and writer. He published works including Some Eminent Indian Contemporaries and Iqbal: The Poet and His Message. He was also the publisher of Indian Nation and the editor of Hindustan Review.
Personal Life of Sachchidananda Sinha
Sachchidananda Sinha was married to Radhika. He was known for his dedication to both his professional and personal life, contributing significantly to the development of modern Bihar and Indian democracy.
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