The News Freedom
Chandigarh, February 3
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Saturday that the distinguished BJP veteran, Lal Krishna Advani, is to receive the prestigious Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award. Describing the occasion as an “emotional moment,” the Prime Minister lauded Advani as one of the most esteemed statesmen of our era, emphasizing his monumental contributions to India’s development.
Having held the position of Deputy Prime Minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government and overseeing various ministries, Advani’s political journey spanned from 1970 to 2019 as a member of both Houses of Parliament. PM Modi highlighted Advani’s life, which commenced with grassroots work and culminated in dedicated service as the Deputy Prime Minister.
“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,” said the Prime Minister in his post on X formerly known as Twitter.
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
“I humbly and gratefully accept the ‘Bharat Ratna’ bestowed upon me today. This honor is not just a personal accolade but also a recognition of the ideals and principles I have consistently endeavored to uphold throughout my life,” expressed Advani in an official statement released today. He further said, “Since my association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh as a volunteer, my sole pursuit has been finding fulfillment through dedicated and selfless service to my beloved country, embracing every task assigned to me by life.”