After the completion of his MA in political science in 1951, Chandra Shekar joined as the Secretary of Praja Socialist Party of Ballia district in 1952. Later he became the General Secretary of the party in 1955. In 1964, he joined the Congress Party.

Chandra Shekar also held the position of the President of Janta Party and was re-elected to Lok Sabha in 1980. Besides, he established 15 Bharat Yatra Centers in various states to train social and political works.

In 1990, Chandra Shekar became the prime minister, and he was vested with charges of ministries such as industry, labor, welfare and planning. He held this position up to June 20, 1991.

Apart from this, he is the founder-editor and chairman of 'Young Indian.' Among his prominent literary works are 'Meri Jail Diary' and 'Dynamics of Social Life.'

Presently, Chandra Shekar is a member of the Central Election Committee and Working Committee of AICCI (All India Chamber of Commerce and Industry.)