Lal Krishna Advani, a key figure in the BJP’s ascent to national prominence, has been awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared the news, expressing his happiness and congratulating Advani on the well-deserved recognition.
PM Modi praised Advani’s monumental role in India’s development, hailing him as one of the most respected statesmen in the country. Acknowledging Advani’s journey from grassroots work to serving as Deputy Prime Minister, Home Minister, and I&B Minister, Modi highlighted his exemplary parliamentary interventions filled with rich insights.
I am very happy to share that Shri LK Advani Ji will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. I also spoke to him and congratulated him on being conferred this honour. One of the most respected statesmen of our times, his contribution to the development of India is monumental. His is a… pic.twitter.com/Ya78qjJbPK
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 3, 2024
Advani’s decades-long commitment to transparency, integrity, and political ethics has left an indelible mark on Indian public life. The Prime Minister commended Advani’s unparalleled efforts in fostering national unity and cultural resurgence, describing the Bharat Ratna conferment as a deeply emotional moment.
Born in Karachi, Advani migrated to India after the Partition, settling in Bombay. Joining the RSS at the age of fourteen in 1941, he later became a crucial member of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the precursor to the BJP, founded by Syama Prasad Mookerjee.
Advani’s political journey included serving in the Rajya Sabha for four terms, becoming the Minister for Information and Broadcasting in 1977, and holding the position of BJP president thrice. He also became a Lok Sabha member in 1989 and served as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs in 1999.
The iconic Ram Rath Yatra led by Advani in 1990 played a pivotal role in the BJP’s rise, demanding the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. This initiative garnered widespread support, propelling the BJP to become the second-largest party in the 1991 general elections.
Politicians across party lines reacted to the Bharat Ratna announcement, with BJP leader Brajesh Pathak extending heartfelt congratulations, while Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit acknowledged Advani’s contribution but criticized the timing. BRS MLC K Kavitha noted the completion of the BJP’s agenda with Advani’s recognition and the construction of the Ram Temple.
The award adds another accolade to Advani’s distinguished career, following his Padma Vibhushan in 2015. The Bharat Ratna serves as a testament to his enduring impact on Indian politics and national development.
