Daijiworld Media Network – Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 20: Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan and several Congress leaders on Thursday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 82nd birth anniversary, recalling his contribution to India's modernisation, scientific development and democratic values.
Satheesan described Rajiv Gandhi as a visionary leader who dedicated his youth to the country and encouraged India to dream of a new future. In a social media post, he said Rajiv Gandhi's tenure as Prime Minister gave fresh momentum to India's scientific and technological development and helped take the country towards the modern world.
Satheesan also recalled Rajiv Gandhi's close relations with world leaders and his role in advancing India's foreign policy. He said the former Prime Minister's decisions were guided by values such as humanity, secularism and national development.
AICC general secretary and Alappuzha MP KC Venugopal remembered Rajiv Gandhi's visit to Darjeeling during the Gorkhaland agitation in 1986. He recalled how Rajiv Gandhi went ahead with his scheduled programme despite a boycott call and addressed a small gathering at North Point Ground.
Venugopal said Rajiv Gandhi's interaction with the people during the visit eventually contributed to efforts that led to the formation of the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council two years later, helping bring an end to years of violence and armed struggle in the region.
Describing Rajiv Gandhi as a leader committed to democracy and secularism, Venugopal said he stood against the politics of hatred and inspired India's youth to dream of a better future.
State Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala also paid tribute to Rajiv Gandhi, saying the former Prime Minister had deeply influenced his political journey and guided him towards national politics. He noted that the country observes Sadbhavana Diwas on Rajiv Gandhi's birth anniversary as a reminder of the importance of secular and democratic values.
Labour Minister Bindu Krishna described Rajiv Gandhi as the architect of modern India and paid tribute to him on his birth anniversary. Electricity Minister and KPCC president Sunny Joseph also remembered the former Prime Minister through a social media post.
Excise Minister Liju recalled Rajiv Gandhi's vision of a strong, independent and self-reliant India and said the former Prime Minister worked tirelessly towards building a modern and dynamic nation.
The Congress leaders said Rajiv Gandhi's vision, commitment to national development and emphasis on peace and secularism continue to inspire generations.