Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with prominent Congress leaders, paid tribute to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 33rd death anniversary. Rajiv Gandhi, who served as India’s youngest Prime Minister, remains a significant figure in the nation’s political history.
Taking to social media, Prime Minister Modi posted on X (formerly known as Twitter), “On his death anniversary, my tributes to our former PM Shri Rajiv Gandhi Ji.” This gesture highlights the respect and recognition of Rajiv Gandhi’s contributions to the nation, transcending party lines.
In the early hours of Tuesday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, and Member of Parliament Rahul Gandhi gathered at Veer Bhumi in Delhi to pay their respects. The solemn event saw the participation of several other Congress leaders, including P Chidambaram and Sachin Pilot, who also honored the memory of the late Prime Minister.
Rajiv Gandhi’s political journey began under tragic circumstances. He assumed the leadership of the Congress party in 1984, following the assassination of his mother, then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. At the age of 40, Rajiv Gandhi became India’s youngest Prime Minister, taking office in October 1984. His tenure, which lasted until December 2, 1989, was marked by significant efforts to modernize India’s technology sector and improve bilateral relations with neighboring countries.
Born on August 20, 1944, Rajiv Gandhi’s life and career were abruptly cut short when he was assassinated by a Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suicide bomber during an election rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, on May 21, 1991. His death marked a dark chapter in Indian history and had a profound impact on the nation’s political landscape.
The commemoration of Rajiv Gandhi’s death anniversary serves as a reminder of his vision and contributions to India. His tenure saw various developmental initiatives, including efforts to expand the telecommunications sector and introduce computers to government operations, which laid the groundwork for India’s IT revolution.
Despite the controversies and challenges that marked his political career, Rajiv Gandhi is remembered for his youthful energy and commitment to advancing India’s progress. His tragic assassination left a void in Indian politics, but his legacy continues to inspire many.
The tribute by Prime Minister Modi and Congress leaders underscores a shared respect for Rajiv Gandhi’s role in shaping modern India. It also reflects the continuing importance of remembering and honoring past leaders who have contributed to the nation’s development.
As India reflects on Rajiv Gandhi’s contributions, his vision for a technologically advanced and modern India remains relevant. The annual commemoration of his death anniversary is not just a moment to remember his life but also an opportunity to reflect on the enduring impact of his policies and vision for the country.
