The Candidate: How activism led to politics; Tracing Ravi Shankar Prasad's path

The Candidate: Ravi Shankar Prasad's political odyssey began amidst the fiery atmosphere of the 1970s, a period marked by intense political upheaval and widespread dissent against Indira Gandhi's government. As a young student leader, Prasad emerged as a fervent advocate for political reform, who channeled his energies into the student movement in Bihar under the legendary Jayaprakash Narayan during the emergency period. His early activism cleared his path for his future political career, which ultimately led to his parliamentary debut in 2000, followed by his appointment as a Union Minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government in 2001.

Personal life and interests

Ravi Shankar Prasad was born on August 30, 1954. He completed his graduation and LLB from Patna University, where he held various leadership roles in the Students' Council. Known for his simplicity, Prasad is often seen in kurta-pajama, though he opts for a prince coat and blazer for formal occasions and international trips. His dietary preferences include green vegetables, salad, and fish.

Ravi Shankar Prasad's family legacy 

Prasad hails from a family with a strong legal background. His father, Thakur Prasad, was a respected lawyer at the Patna High Court and a key founder of the Jan Sangh, now known as the BJP. Ravi Shankar Prasad's legal career is distinguished by his participation in high-profile cases. Notably, he argued against former Chief Minister Lalu Prasad in the fodder scam and handled numerous cases for former Deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna Advani in the Patna High Court. His legal expertise earned him the designation of Senior Advocate by the Patna High Court in 1999, and he has since practiced in the Supreme Court of India.

Entry into parliamentary politics

Prasad's political career saw a significant milestone when he was elected as a Member of Parliament from Patna Sahib in 2019. Prior to this, he served as a Rajya Sabha member four times. His ascent in politics continued as he became a key member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet, serving in various ministerial capacities. His tenure as Minister of State in the Ministry of Law and Justice saw him initiating crucial reforms, including amending the Representation of the People Act and promoting the establishment of fast-track courts.

Contributions to media and technology reforms

As Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Prasad spearheaded significant reforms in the radio, television, and animation sectors. He played a pivotal role in establishing the International Film Festival of India's (IFFI) center in Goa, enhancing India's cultural and media landscape. His vision for modernization and reform has had a lasting impact on these sectors.

Legal career highlights

Prasad's legal career is marked by his involvement in landmark cases. He has participated in international congresses on law, medicine, and patent law, reflecting his broad legal expertise. Some of his notable cases include the Narmada Bachao Andolan case, the Bihar Legislative Assembly Dissolution case, and the Ayodhya case. His legal acumen has been instrumental in shaping several significant legal precedents in India.

BJP Spokesperson since 2006

Ravi Shankar Prasad became the national spokesperson of the BJP in 2006. Re-elected to the Rajya Sabha from Bihar in April 2006, he was appointed as the chief national spokesperson of the party in 2007. Over the past decade, he has been an integral member of the BJP's National Executive and has contributed to various parliamentary committees.

Key positions held

• National Vice President of Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (1991-1995): Prasad served two terms in this role, demonstrating his leadership in youth politics.
• Member, National Executive Committee, BJP (August 1995): He was appointed to this influential committee, marking a significant step in his political career.  
• Fodder Scam Litigation (August 1996): The fodder scam gained attention in Bihar, and Prasad played a pivotal role by filing public interest litigation in the Patna High Court, demanding a CBI investigation.
• Rajya Sabha Membership (April 2000): Prasad was elected to the Rajya Sabha for the first time, beginning his journey in the upper house of Parliament.
• National Convenor, Legal Cell, BJP (June 2001): He took on the responsibility of coordinating the party's legal affairs.
• Minister of State in the Ministry of Coal and Mines (September 2001): Prasad was appointed to this ministerial position, adding to his growing list of responsibilities.
• Minister of State (Additional Charge) in the Ministry of Law and Justice (July 2002): He assumed additional responsibilities, reflecting his expanding influence in the government.
• Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (January 2003): Prasad led significant reforms in the media sector during his tenure.
• National Spokesperson of BJP (August 2005): Reaffirming his role as the party's voice, Prasad was appointed as the national spokesperson.
• Rajya Sabha Re-election (March 2006): Prasad was re-elected to the Rajya Sabha, continuing his legislative work.
• Member, Standing Committee on Information Technology (August 2006): He contributed to the committee overseeing technological advancements and policies.
• Member, Executive Council of the Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies (October 2009): Prasad's expertise in constitutional matters was recognized with this appointment.
• Rajya Sabha Re-election (April 2012): He was elected to the Rajya Sabha for the third time.
• Deputy Leader of BJP in Rajya Sabha (May 2012): Prasad was appointed to this leadership position within the party.
• Member of Committee on Privileges (May 2013): He served on this important parliamentary committee.
• Minister of Electronics and Information Technology and Law (May 2014): Under Modi's government, Prasad took on critical roles in technology and law.
• Rajya Sabha Re-election (April 2018): Prasad was elected to the Rajya Sabha for the fourth time.
• Lok Sabha MP (May 23, 2019): Prasad transitioned to the lower house of Parliament, representing the Patna Sahib constituency.
• Minister of Law and Justice, Electronics, Information Technology, and Communications (May 2019-2021): He continued to serve in key ministerial roles.