The Unusual Cross‑Party Backing of PA Sangma in 1996

In a rare episode of Indian parliamentary history, the Vajpayee government chose to support the opposition’s nominee, P.A. Sangma, for the Speaker’s post. The decision came just before a confidence vote, signalling a new era of coalition politics. Sangma’s legal training, parliamentary experience and reputation for fairness earned him respect from both sides of the aisle.