New Delhi: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) veteran L.K. Advani is set to receive the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Saturday on X. Describing Advani’s contributions to India’s development as “monumental”, Modi expressed his “privilege” in interacting and learning from the veteran leader.
“Advani Ji’s decades-long service in public life has been marked by an unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity, setting an exemplary standard in political ethics. He has made unparalleled efforts towards furthering national unity and cultural resurgence. The conferring of the Bharat Ratna on him is a very emotional moment for me. I will always consider it my privilege that I got countless opportunities to interact with him and learn from him”, his post on X stated.
He also praised Advani’s decades-long commitment to “transparency, integrity”, and exemplary political ethics along with his unparalleled efforts in promoting national unity and cultural resurgence, dubbing him “one of the most respected statesmen of our times”.
Highlighting Advani’s journey from grassroots work to serving as deputy prime minister, home minister, and I&B minister, Modi further commended his insights in parliamentary interventions.
Advani Ji’s decades-long service in public life has been marked by an unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity, setting an exemplary standard in political ethics. He has made unparalleled efforts towards furthering national unity and cultural resurgence. The conferring…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 3, 2024
Advani, during his extensive political career, has held various significant positions, including Leader of Opposition and BJP president.
The Bharat Ratna is bestowed in recognition of “exceptional service/performance of the highest order”. Established in 1954, past awardees include Indira Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Lal Bahadur Shastri, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
This announcement comes after both Advani and BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi were requested not to attend the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, in consideration of their advanced age and health conditions. However, following backlash, senior members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) extended invitations to both leaders to attend the event on 22 January.
(Edited by Zinnia Ray)
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