New Delhi, August 20: Political leaders across India on Thursday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 82nd birth anniversary, remembering his contribution to public life and his vision for a modern India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to Rajiv Gandhi, while Vice President C P Radhakrishnan also remembered the former prime minister’s service to the nation and contribution to public life.
Congress leaders gathered at Veer Bhumi in New Delhi, where Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra paid floral tributes to Rajiv Gandhi.
Rahul Gandhi remembered his father and pledged to continue working towards his ideals of unity, democracy and equal rights. He said Rajiv Gandhi’s teachings remained a source of strength and that his vision for India would continue to guide him.
Kharge described Rajiv Gandhi as a visionary leader who placed faith in India’s youth, technological progress and new ideas. He said the former prime minister’s legacy continued through the changes he championed during his tenure.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh also highlighted several initiatives associated with Rajiv Gandhi’s government, including lowering the voting age from 21 to 18, the 1988 National Education Policy and the expansion of youth programmes. He also credited Rajiv Gandhi with helping India move decisively into the information technology era.
Rajiv Gandhi became India’s youngest prime minister at the age of 40 in October 1984, following the assassination of his mother, Indira Gandhi. He remained in office until December 1989.
Born on August 20, 1944, Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated on May 21, 1991, during an election campaign in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu.
His birth anniversary is observed each year with commemorative events across the country. The day is also associated with the message of communal harmony and national unity, with Congress leaders recalling his emphasis on technology, youth and India's development.
This year’s tributes brought together leaders from across the political spectrum, reflecting Rajiv Gandhi’s enduring place in India’s political history.
