Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on the occasion of his 33rd death anniversary.
The Prime Minister expressed his respects through a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “On his death anniversary, my tributes to our former PM Shri Rajiv Gandhi Ji.”
This gesture was a part of the broader commemoration of Rajiv Gandhi’s legacy, reflecting on his contributions to the nation.
Congress Leaders Pay Homage
The commemoration saw a significant turnout of senior Congress leaders.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, and party MP Rahul Gandhi were among those who paid their respects at Veer Bhumi, the memorial dedicated to Rajiv Gandhi in Delhi.
The solemn event took place on Tuesday morning, marking the significance of the day.
Other notable Congress leaders, including P Chidambaram and Sachin Pilot, also joined in paying tribute to the former Prime Minister, reflecting the party’s collective remembrance of his service and sacrifice.
Rajiv Gandhi’s Political Journey
Rajiv Gandhi’s political career began under tragic circumstances.
Following the assassination of his mother, then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, in 1984, Rajiv Gandhi took over the leadership of the Congress party.
At the age of 40, he became the youngest Prime Minister of India, assuming office in October 1984.
Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure as Prime Minister lasted until December 2, 1989.
During his time in office, he was known for his efforts to lead India into the information age, promoting technological advancement and modernizing the nation’s infrastructure.
A Legacy Cut Short
Born on August 20, 1944, Rajiv Gandhi’s life was tragically cut short on May 21, 1991.
He was assassinated by a suicide bomber from the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) during an election rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu.
His assassination marked a dark chapter in India’s history and left an indelible mark on the nation’s political landscape.
Continued Remembrance
The annual observance of Rajiv Gandhi’s death anniversary serves as a reminder of his contributions to India and the circumstances of his untimely death.
The tributes from Prime Minister Modi and other leaders highlight the continued respect and recognition for Rajiv Gandhi’s role in shaping modern India.
As the nation remembers Rajiv Gandhi, the reflections on his vision for India and the path he set for future generations continue to resonate.
The solemn commemorations at Veer Bhumi and the messages shared by leaders underscore the enduring impact of his legacy.