Correct option is A
After the untimely death of Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed on February 11, 1977, while serving as the fifth President of India, the responsibilities of the presidency were taken over by B. D. Jatti, the then Vice-President of India. According to Article 65 of the Indian Constitution, the Vice-President automatically assumes the role of Acting President in such circumstances.
B. D. Jatti served as Acting President from February 11, 1977, until Neelam Sanjiva Reddy was elected as the sixth President of India on July 25, 1977. During this interim period, Jatti ensured that the office of the President remained functional, demonstrating the robustness of India's constitutional framework in handling transitions of power.
Information Booster:
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Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed: Served as President from 1974–1977 and was the second President of India to die while in office.
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B. D. Jatti’s Tenure: Acted as President for over five months during a politically sensitive period.
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Article 65 of the Constitution: Assigns the Vice-President the duty to act as President in the event of the President's demise, resignation, or inability to perform duties.
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Neelam Sanjiva Reddy’s Election: In July 1977, Reddy was elected as President, becoming the first unopposed candidate for the position.
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Seamless Transition: The provision for Acting President ensures there is no disruption in the executive functioning of the country.
Additional Knowledge:
B. D. Jatti:
· He was the fifth Vice-President of India (1974–1979) and acted as President from February 11, 1977, to July 25, 1977.
· Known for his administrative acumen, he served as Mysore's Chief Minister.
V. V. Giri:
· Served as the fourth President of India (1969–1974).
· He acted as President in 1969 following the death of Dr. Zakir Hussain, before being elected as President himself.
Zail Singh:
· He was the seventh President of India (1982–1987).
· Zail Singh was the first Sikh to hold the position and served during a politically tumultuous time in Indian history.
N. S. Reddy:
· Neelam Sanjiva Reddy became the sixth President of India in July 1977 after Jatti’s tenure as Acting President.
· He holds the distinction of being elected unopposed to the office of the President.