In a significant announcement today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed that Lal Krishna Advani, a stalwart of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), will be honored with the prestigious Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award. The Prime Minister expressed his joy, referring to it as an “emotional moment” and highlighted Advani’s immense contributions to the nation’s development.
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, PM Modi shared the news, stating, “I am delighted to share that Shri LK Advani Ji will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. I also had the pleasure of speaking to him and extending my heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved honor.”
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, a seasoned politician, served as the Deputy Prime Minister in the government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee and held key ministerial portfolios. His parliamentary career spanned from 1970 to 2019, making him a prominent figure in Indian politics.
Reflecting on Advani’s multifaceted contributions, PM Modi remarked, “From his grassroots beginnings to serving as our Deputy Prime Minister, Advani Ji has played a pivotal role. His leadership in the Home Ministry and Information & Broadcasting Ministry was commendable, and his parliamentary interventions have consistently demonstrated rich insights.”
The Prime Minister also commended Advani for setting a high standard in political ethics during his tenure as the President of the BJP. “Advani Ji’s decades-long service in public life has been characterized by an unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity, establishing a benchmark in political ethics. His efforts towards fostering national unity and cultural resurgence are unparalleled,” Modi said.
Expressing the emotional significance of the moment, PM Modi added, “The conferment of the Bharat Ratna upon him is a deeply emotional moment for me. I consider it a privilege to have had numerous opportunities to interact with him and learn from his wisdom.”
This announcement follows the recent posthumous recognition of former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur with the Bharat Ratna, underscoring the government’s acknowledgment of leaders who have made significant contributions to the nation’s progress.