Vithalbhai Patel

• The Delhi Legislative Assembly recently held a two-day conference titled ‘Vithalbhai Patel: His Role in Shaping India's Constitution and Legislative Institutions’ in New Delhi.

• The conference highlighted Vithalbhai Patel’s contributions to India’s constitutional and legislative framework.

About Vithalbhai Patel

• Born: 27 September 1873

• Relation: Elder brother of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

• Political Career:

  • Early political leader and co-founder of the Swaraj Party along with Chittaranjan Das and Motilal Nehru.

  • Entered politics before his younger brother Vallabhbhai Patel.

  • Initially part of the Indian National Congress, though he wasn’t always aligned with Gandhi’s methods.

  • Won a seat in the Bombay Legislative Council with support from followers.

  • After the Chauri Chaura incident and the end of the Non-cooperation Movement in 1922, he left Congress to form the Swaraj Party.

  • The Swaraj Party aimed to enter legislative councils and disrupt British governance from within.

  • Known for his oratory skills and sharp wit, gaining popularity among the masses.

  • Elected to the Central Legislative Assembly in 1923 and became its President (Speaker) in 1925 — the first Indian to hold this position.

• Legacy:

  • He drew international attention to India’s independence movement, lighting the flame of freedom both domestically and abroad.

• Death: Died on 22 October 1933 in Geneva, Switzerland.