Narayan Dutt Tiwari, a prominent figure in Indian politics, left an indelible mark on the nation. This blog post delves into his life, career, and controversies, offering a comprehensive look at this influential leader.

Biography/Wiki

Narayan Dutt Tiwari, born October 18, 1925, in Baluti, United Provinces, British India (now Nainital District, Uttarakhand), was a highly accomplished Indian politician. Initially affiliated with the Praja Socialist Party, he later joined the Indian National Congress (INC). His political career was marked by significant achievements, most notably his role as Chief Minister of two Indian states: Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand – a feat unmatched by any other Indian politician.

His early life showed an inclination towards politics; he actively participated in India’s struggle for independence, resulting in a 15-month prison sentence. His involvement in student politics began during his college years, culminating in his election as President of the Allahabad University Student Union. This early success foreshadowed his later rise in national politics.

Family, Wife & Children

Born into a Brahmin family of landowners, Tiwari’s father, Poornanand Tiwari, served as a forest department officer under the British Raj. His first marriage was to Sushila Tiwari, which lasted until her death in 1993. In 2014, at the age of 89, he married Ujjwala Tiwari, a retired lecturer. Their relationship began in 1960, a time when both were facing marital challenges.

His son, Rohit Shekhar Tiwari, born from his relationship with Ujjwala, was initially an illegitimate child. However, a DNA test later confirmed the paternity.

Career

Tiwari’s educational journey included attending M. B. School, Haldwani; E. M. High School, Bareilly; and C.R.S.T. High School, Nainital. He earned his M.A. (Political Science) and L.L.B. from Allahabad University.

His father’s participation in the Non-Cooperation movement influenced his own political activism. His arrest in 1942 for writing against British policies led to a 15-month jail term alongside his father. This experience further solidified his commitment to political engagement.

From 1945 to 1949, he served as the Secretary of the All India Student Congress. In 1990, he was considered a strong contender for the Prime Minister’s post but ultimately lost the Lok Sabha elections. Notably, in 2017, he publicly supported the BJP, prioritizing developmental goals above party affiliations.

Political Journey

Tiwari’s political career began in 1952 with his election as an MLA from the Nainital constituency on a Praja Samajwadi Party ticket. He served as the Leader of the Opposition in 1957. He later joined the Indian National Congress in 1963.

His career highlights include:

• Cabinet Minister in the Uttar Pradesh government (1965)
• First President of the Indian Youth Congress (1969-1971)
• Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh (1976, 1984, 1988)
• Minister for Finance and Parliamentary Affairs under Chaudhary Charan Singh (1979-1980)
• Chief Minister of Uttarakhand (2002)
• Governor of Andhra Pradesh (2007-2009)
• Member of the 11th and 13th Lok Sabha (1996, 1999)

His political journey was marked by periods of significant influence and shifts in party allegiances. His diverse roles reflect his deep engagement with Indian politics.

Controversies

Tiwari’s career wasn’t without controversy. In 2009, he resigned as Governor of Andhra Pradesh following a sex scandal publicized by a Telugu news channel. Additionally, a paternity suit filed by Rohit Shekhar Tiwari was resolved through a DNA test confirming Tiwari’s paternity.

Death

Narayan Dutt Tiwari passed away on October 18, 2018, at the age of 93, at Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, succumbing to a chronic illness following a brain stroke in 2017.

Net Worth

His ancestral property was estimated to be worth several hundred crores.

Address

Tiwari’s residences included C1/9, Tilak Lane, New Delhi, and 1 A, Mall Avenue, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Favourite Things

Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru were among his admired leaders.