Yesterday, it was the 5th time we commemorated the day Sushma Swaraj died; a political veteran whose heritage is still inspiring. No matter which party one belongs to she was an iconoclast in Indian politics with a devotion that went beyond party lines. Her influence and charm extended far beyond the limits of national boundaries.
Early Life and Ambitions
Sushma Swaraj was born into an average family in Ambala Cantonment. She had shown ambition from her earliest days, nurtured by her kin. The major role in shaping her political mindset was played by her dad who actively participated as an associate member of RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh). Swaraj took a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Sanskrit and later graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from Punjab University where she started off the journey toward her great future career.
Entry into Politics
Her legal profession began when she joined George Fernandes’ defense counsel during the Emergency period. For instance, in the 1970s she practiced as an advocate in the Supreme Court while at the same time being an active participant in Jayaprakash Narayan’s revolutionary movement. Post emergency led to them joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP); within no time, she grew up to be a national leader among them.
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First Woman Chief Minister of Delhi
The year 1998 witnessed Swaraj becoming India’s first female Chief Minister for Delhi although it may have been for just some few weeks. She had an extensive political career before that including various roles in Haryana and as an MP from New Delhi. While serving as the Minister for Information and Broadcasting; she made significant contributions.
Role as Minister of External Affairs
The most memorable role played by Sushma Swaraj is perhaps when she served as the Minister of External Affairs during Narendra Modi’s first term as Prime Minister. Her diplomacy was successful in the 16th Lok Sabha, with a focus on Indians abroad, thus receiving widespread acclaim. Her personal touch in engaging with the public via social media changed how government works in terms of accessibility and responsiveness.
Swaraj died suddenly after having a heart attack in 2019 which left behind a great example of service and leadership. Bansuri Swaraj now serves as a Lok Sabha member following her mother’s steps into politics and law. Sushma Swaraj’s fearless approach to leadership has been an inspiration to many generations in India up to now.