National: India today collectively paused to remember former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 34th death anniversary. Leaders from across the political spectrum offered their tributes to the man who became India’s youngest Prime Minister, assuming office at just 40 years old following the tragic assassination of his mother, Indira Gandhi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on X, extended his respects, writing, “On his death anniversary today, I pay my tributes to our former Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi Ji.” His tenure, from 1984 to 1989, saw significant shifts in Indian policy before he tragically fell victim to a terrorist attack in 1991, just months after resigning as Leader of the Opposition.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also joined the nationwide homage, posting on X, “Remembering former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his punyatithi today.” The sentiments resonated across the political landscape, highlighting Gandhi’s enduring legacy.
In New Delhi, the Congress party led a heartfelt tribute, with Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge, leading the solemn ceremony at Veer Bhumi. The Congress party’s official X handle posted, “On the death anniversary of the late Shri Rajiv Gandhi, the leader of opposition, Rahul Gandhi visited ‘Veer Bhumi’ and paid his emotional tribute to him. The excellent work done by Rajiv Gandhi in the national interest can never be forgotten.”
Mallikarjun Kharge, in his own tribute on X, hailed Rajiv Gandhi as “a great son of India” whose vision ignited hope across the nation. Kharge underscored Gandhi’s pivotal contributions, which he stated were instrumental in preparing India for the 21st century.
These included groundbreaking initiatives such as lowering the voting age to 18, fortifying Panchayati Raj institutions, spearheading the telecommunications and IT revolutions, and implementing a comprehensive computerisation program.
Kharge also highlighted his efforts in securing peace accords, launching a universal immunization program, and introducing a new education policy focused on inclusive learning, concluding his tribute by offering “Our deepest respects to the Former PM, Bharat Ratna, Rajiv Gandhi on his martyrdom day.”
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