Neelam Sanjiva Reddy (19 May 1913 – 1 June 1996) was an Indian politician who served as the sixth president of India, serving from 1977 to 1982. Beginning a long political career with the Indian National Congress Party in the independence movement, he went on to hold several key offices in independent India — as Deputy Chief minister of Andhra state and the first Chief Minister of United Andhra Pradesh, a two-time Speaker of the Lok Sabha and a Union Minister— before becoming the Indian president.
Reddy was born in Anantapur district, Madras Presidency (now Andhra Pradesh) in 1913. He was educated at Rishi Valley School and the University of Madras. He joined the Indian National Congress Party in 1931 and participated in the Quit India Movement in 1942. He was elected to the Madras Legislative Assembly in 1946 and served as a minister in the Congress government.
In 1953, Reddy was appointed Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra State. He served in this position until 1956, when Andhra State was merged with Hyderabad State to form the new state of Andhra Pradesh. Reddy was elected the first Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh in 1956. He served as Chief Minister until 1960.
In 1962, Reddy was elected to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian Parliament. He served as a member of the Lok Sabha for four terms. In 1967, he was elected Speaker of the Lok Sabha. He served as Speaker until 1969.
In 1977, Reddy was nominated as the presidential candidate of the Janata Party. He was elected President of India unopposed. He served as President until 1982.
Reddy died in Bangalore on 1 June 1996. He was 83 years old.
Reddy was a respected politician who was known for his integrity and his commitment to democracy. He was a strong advocate for secularism and for the rights of the poor and the marginalized. He was also a strong supporter of education and of the development of rural areas.
Reddy's legacy is one of service to the nation. He was a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of the people of India. He is remembered as a wise and compassionate leader who helped to shape the course of modern India.
