Modi, Shah, Adityanath, Sarma pay tribute to Vajpayee on death anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and chief ministers Yogi Adityanath and Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday paid tributes to former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his death anniversary, recalling his contribution to nation-building, good governance and public life.

Modi described Vajpayee as an "extraordinary statesman" blessed with remarkable vision who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.

"Remembering Atal Ji on his 'Punya Tithi'. An extraordinary statesman blessed with remarkable vision, he dedicated his life to the service of our nation," Modi said in a post on X.

The prime minister said Vajpayee's words and efforts inspired generations and his leadership strengthened the country. His focus on good governance and public welfare, Modi said, would continue to guide the nation.

Shah said Vajpayee's value-based politics made the vision of "antyodaya" and good governance a reality for the first time.

"On one hand, he made the entire world aware of India's strength through nuclear tests and the Kargil War, while on the other hand, his value-based politics made the vision of 'antyodaya' and good governance on-ground reality for the first time," Shah said. 

Shah described Vajpayee as a patriot politician who dedicated every moment of his life to the service of the nation and said his towering personality and leadership would continue to inspire BJP workers towards nation-building.

Adityanath described Vajpayee as a towering figure of devotion to the nation and democratic values, saying his unwavering resolve for national progress continued to inspire citizens to work towards building a "Viksit Bharat".

"Through his profound vision and dignified conduct, Atal ji established high ideals of probity in Indian democracy, ethics in politics, and service to the nation. His entire life stands as a living embodiment of the 'Nation First' spirit," the Uttar Pradesh chief minister said on X. 

Keshav Prasad Maurya described Vajpayee as a statesman with no enemies and a spirited poet, saying steadfastness in thought, humility in conduct and national interest in decisions were hallmarks of his public life. 

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said Vajpayee embodied a "rare union" of compassion, conviction and statesmanship.

"From strengthening India's strategic resolve to laying the foundations of modern infrastructure and inclusive development, his legacy continues to shape our nation's journey," Sarma said in a post on X.  

Vajpayee, the first BJP leader to become prime minister, was born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior and died on August 16, 2018, in New Delhi.