PM Modi leads tributes to Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his death anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his death anniversary, calling him an extraordinary statesman whose life was devoted to the nation. In a post on X, Modi said, "Remembering Atal Ji on his 'Punya Tithi'. An extraordinary statesman blessed with remarkable vision, he dedicated his life to the service of our nation."

Vajpayee, a towering figure in Indian politics and the first Bharatiya Janata Party leader to become Prime Minister, passed away on August 16, 2018, at the age of 93. Born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, he served as Prime Minister three times — first for 13 days in 1996, then for 13 months in 1998-99, and finally for a full term from 1999 to 2004. His tenure was marked by significant economic and foreign policy initiatives.

Prime Minister Modi further noted that Vajpayee's words and efforts inspired generations and his leadership strengthened the country. "His focus on good governance and public welfare will always continue to guide us," Modi added. The tribute reflects the enduring respect Vajpayee commanded across party lines, not just within the BJP but also among political opponents who acknowledged his oratory, poetical sensibilities, and commitment to democratic values.

Vajpayee's political career spanned more than five decades. He was one of the founders of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh and later played a pivotal role in the formation of the Janata Party after the Emergency. He served as External Affairs Minister in the Morarji Desai government (1977-79) and was a prominent voice in India's foreign policy debates. His decision to conduct nuclear tests at Pokhran in May 1998 established India as a nuclear weapon state, while his leadership during the Kargil conflict in 1999 was widely credited for India's diplomatic and military response.

Perhaps his most celebrated initiative was the bus journey to Lahore in February 1999, aimed at improving relations with Pakistan. The Lahore Declaration, signed between Vajpayee and then-Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, committed both nations to resolve bilateral issues peacefully. Though the subsequent Kargil war strained relations, Vajpayee's efforts toward peace remain a defining part of his legacy.

Domestically, Vajpayee's government oversaw major infrastructure projects, including the Golden Quadrilateral highway network and the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. His emphasis on economic reforms, public-private partnerships, and disinvestment helped modernise India's economy. Known for his coalition-building skills, he led the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) with a focus on consensus and governance, earning him the epithet "Ajatshatru" (one without enemies).

Vajpayee was also a celebrated poet and an eloquent orator. His speeches in Parliament were often laced with poetic verses and wit, earning him admiration even from his strongest critics. He retired from active politics in 2005 due to failing health and was conferred India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, in 2015.

On his death anniversary, political leaders from various parties have paid floral tributes at the 'Sadaiv Atal' memorial in New Delhi, founded after his death. The memorial, located near the Sangam at Rajghat, symbolises his lifelong bond with the nation. Tributes poured in on social media, with citizens remembering his contributions to India's progress and his dignified political conduct.

As the nation remembers Atal Bihari Vajpayee on this 'Punya Tithi', his legacy continues to inspire both leaders and citizens. His life remains a reminder of the value of statesmanship, vision, and the spirit of democracy over partisanship.