Politics
Tributes Paid to Rajiv Gandhi on Birth Anniversary
On August 20, 2024, various leaders paid tribute to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on what would have been his 80th birthday. Under a gloomy sky filled with monsoon rain, Rahul Gandhi led the tribute at Veer Bhumi in New Delhi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also shared his respects through a post on X, stating, ‘Tributes to our former Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi Ji on his birth anniversary.’
The Congress Party, which Rajiv led in the 1980s, remembered him fondly, with President Mallikarjun Kharge highlighting his contributions that helped propel India into the 21st century. He mentioned important initiatives like lowering the voting age to 18, the telecom and IT revolution, and women empowerment.
Notably, Congress officials spoke on social media about Rajiv’s vision for modernity and youth empowerment, stating that his legacy continues to inspire their efforts toward a progressive and inclusive nation.
Rajya Sabha MP Jairam Ramesh also commemorated Rajiv’s impactful political career. He noted that the 1985 Budget, in which Rajiv played a key role, marked a significant change in India’s economic policy.
Furthermore, Ramesh praised Rajiv Gandhi’s commitment to peace in regions such as Assam, Punjab, Mizoram, and Tripura, emphasizing his ability to prioritize national interests over party politics.
Rajiv Gandhi stepped into the political spotlight following the assassination of his mother, Indira Gandhi, becoming the youngest Prime Minister of India at the age of 40.