Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated Harivansh Narayan Singh on being re-elected as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, saying his return for a third term reflects the “deep trust” the House has placed in him.
The development signals continuity in the functioning of the Upper House at a time when Parliament is handling crucial legislative business, with both the treasury and opposition benches acknowledging Harivansh’s role in maintaining order and balance.
Harivansh was re-elected through a voice vote after Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda moved the motion in the Rajya Sabha. Vice President and Chairman CP Radhakrishnan announced the result, saying, “I declare that Shriman Harivansh has been chosen as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.”
Following the announcement, Prime Minister Modi, Leader of the House JP Nadda, and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge escorted Harivansh to the dais and back to his seat, in keeping with parliamentary tradition. Kharge, in a lighter moment, congratulated him, saying, “I would like to congratulate you for the work you have done here. I am getting another chance to sit with you in the House. You are a good (seat) neighbour,” drawing laughter from the Opposition benches.
PM Modi highlights leadership, discipline and experience
Addressing members, the Prime Minister said, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Harivansh Ji. The fact that he has been elected Deputy Chairman for the third consecutive time reflects the deep trust this House places in him. Under his deputy chairmanship, the House has seen significant improvement. This is a symbol of his simple and efficient working style. We have all seen, under his guidance, the House becoming more effective. He uses his vast experience to conduct the proceedings, making them more accurate and productive.”
He added, “I am confident that in his new tenure, he will continue with the same dedication and balance. With everyone’s cooperation, this House will achieve new heights.”
From journalism to Parliament: PM recalls Harivansh’s journey
The Prime Minister also spoke about Harivansh’s early life and professional journey, noting his roots and his work beyond Parliament.
“Harivansh Ji was born in Jai Prakash Ji’s village and, since his student days, he has been actively involved in village development work,” he said.
He further added, “Harivansh Ji’s public life is not limited to parliamentary work; he has also achieved significant milestones in journalism. He has always placed human values at the core of his work, and his language and expression reflect discipline and simplicity.”
Recalling his own experience, Modi said, “I used to read his writings when I was in Gujarat. He used to strongly express his views and raise important issues. In journalism, he always tried to reach the last person. Even in the House, we can see the reflection of these qualities, which is a matter of great satisfaction.”
Coincidence with Chandrashekhar’s birth anniversary
The Prime Minister linked the re-election with the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Chandrashekhar.
“Today, April 17, 1927, marks the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Chandrashekhar. It is indeed a coincidence that Harivansh Ji is beginning this responsibility on his birth anniversary. He has also written a book on Chandrashekhar Ji and has helped introduce his life and ideas to new generations,” he said.
Harivansh has co-authored the book ‘Chandra Shekhar: The Last Icon of Ideological Politics’ with Ravi Dutt Bajpai.
Focus on youth outreach and parliamentary conduct
Highlighting Harivansh’s outreach efforts, PM Modi said he has consistently engaged with young people and institutions.
“I have seen Harivansh Ji dedicate considerable time to engaging with youth and creating awareness among them. He travels across the country for this purpose,” he said.
Referring to his earlier tenure, the Prime Minister added, “In 2018, when he began his role as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, he conducted around 300 programmes in colleges and universities. This is a significant effort — visiting institutions, participating in events, preparing, and motivating students. This is truly commendable.”
He further said, “The dream of Viksit Bharat 2047 should be a guiding vision for our youth, and he consistently works to convey this message.”
Praise for work ethic and conduct in House
PM Modi also emphasised Harivansh’s discipline and commitment to parliamentary responsibilities.
“Punctuality and dedication towards responsibility are his strengths. Since he became a member of the Upper House, he has devoted full time to the functioning of the House,” he said.
“He listens to every issue carefully and gives full attention, which is a valuable lesson for all of us,” the Prime Minister added.
Summing up, he said, “As Deputy Chairman, the way he conducts the House and as a member, the way he contributes — both are always spoken of highly. Outside Parliament as well, the manner in which he carries out his responsibilities is remarkable and admirable.”