Lal Krishna Advani to Receive Bharat Ratna
In a momentous decision, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced that veteran leader Lal Krishna Advani will be honored with the prestigious Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award. At the age of 96, Advani becomes the second BJP leader to receive this esteemed recognition after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally conveyed his congratulations to Advani, acknowledging his significant contributions to the nation’s development.
In the annals of Indian politics, few names evoke as much respect and admiration as Shri Lal Krishna Advani. A veteran leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Advani’s political journey spans decades, marked by significant milestones and a steadfast commitment to his principles.
A Legacy of Service:
L.K. Advani, a founding member of the BJP, has had a remarkable political career spanning decades. Born on November 8, 1927, in Karachi, he served as the Deputy Prime Minister from 2002 to 2004 under the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Prior to this, he held the position of Home Minister in the NDA government from 1998 to 2004. His unwavering commitment to the party’s ideals has earned him this extraordinary recognition.
Early Life and Political Beginnings:
Born on November 8, 1927, in Karachi (now in Pakistan), Advani’s early life was marked by the turbulence of partition. His family moved to India, and he grew up in the newly formed state of Rajasthan. His tryst with politics began during his college years, where he actively participated in student movements.
Advani’s association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) laid the foundation for his political journey. The ideological underpinnings of the RSS, rooted in Hindutva, greatly influenced Advani’s political worldview. He gradually rose through the ranks, displaying leadership skills and a deep commitment to the cause.
Rise within the BJP:
Advani’s political trajectory gained momentum with his association with the Janata Party in the 1970s. However, it was his pivotal role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement that catapulted him to the forefront of Indian politics. The movement, which sought the construction of a temple at the site believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram in Ayodhya, became a defining moment in Advani’s career.
As the leader of the Rath Yatra in 1990, Advani mobilized massive support for the cause, galvanizing public sentiment. The movement not only brought the BJP to the center stage but also fueled debates on secularism and religious identity in the country.
Notable Achievements:
Advani’s political career is studded with significant achievements. He served as the Deputy Prime Minister of India from 2002 to 2004 under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s leadership. During this period, he played a crucial role in steering the government and was actively involved in key policy decisions.
His role in the nuclear tests conducted in 1998, during the Vajpayee-led government, showcased his commitment to strengthening India’s strategic capabilities. Advani’s advocacy for a strong and assertive India resonated with many, earning him praise and recognition.
Contribution to National Security:
Known for his strong stance on national security, Advani has been a staunch supporter of a robust defense and security apparatus. His tenure as the Home Minister from 1998 to 2004 saw significant efforts to combat terrorism and strengthen internal security. The tough approach towards terrorism, including the drafting of POTA (Prevention of Terrorism Act), demonstrated his commitment to safeguarding the nation.
Controversies and Criticisms:
Despite his contributions to Indian politics, Advani has not been without controversies. The demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya in 1992, following the Rath Yatra, led to widespread criticism and accusations against him. The incident raised questions about the commitment to secularism and communal harmony in Indian politics.
Advani’s remarks during the Jinnah controversy in 2005 also stirred a political storm. His praise for Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, was perceived by many as a departure from the BJP’s ideological stand. The incident exposed internal rifts within the party and led to a reevaluation of his political standing.
Modi’s Congratulations:
Prime Minister Modi expressed his joy on social media, sharing two pictures of himself with Advani. He wrote, “I am delighted to share that Lal Krishna Advani will be honored with the Bharat Ratna. His contribution to the country’s development is unforgettable. He is one of the most respected statesmen of our time, having started his journey at the grassroots level and rising to the position of Deputy Prime Minister.”
Pioneering Statesmanship:
Modi praised Advani’s statesmanship, emphasizing his pivotal role in the nation’s progress. “He initiated work at the grassroots level and ascended to the position of Deputy Prime Minister. He served as the Home Minister and Minister of Information and Broadcasting. His parliamentary style will always be admired,” Modi stated.
Public Life and Ethical Leadership:
Advani’s public life has been marked by transparency, integrity, and a commitment to ethical leadership. Modi noted, “In his public life, Advani Ji displayed unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity for decades. He established an exemplary standard in political ethics. His unparalleled efforts in promoting national unity and cultural rejuvenation are noteworthy. It is an emotional moment for me that he will be honored with the Bharat Ratna. I consider it a privilege to have had numerous opportunities to engage in conversations and learn from him.”
Lal Krishna Advani’s journey in Indian politics has been nothing short of extraordinary. From being a founding member of the BJP to holding key ministerial positions and eventually becoming the Deputy Prime Minister, his contributions have played a pivotal role in shaping the party’s identity and national policies. The Bharat Ratna is a testament to his enduring legacy and the impact he has had on the political landscape.
Padma Vibhushan in 2015:
Before being awarded the Bharat Ratna, Advani received the Padma Vibhushan, the country’s second-highest civilian award, in 2015. This recognition came in the same year that Atal Bihari Vajpayee was honored with the Bharat Ratna. The then-President Pranab Mukherjee personally visited Advani’s residence to present him with this prestigious accolade.
Legacy and Influence:
Shri L.K. Advani’s legacy in Indian politics is indelible. His strategic acumen, principled leadership, and dedication to national causes have left an enduring impact. The Rath Yatra and the Ram Janmabhoomi movement remain defining chapters in India’s political history, shaping the narrative of religious identity and political mobilization.
As a parliamentarian, Advani was known for his articulate speeches and astute observations on various issues. His commitment to democracy and constitutional values resonated across party lines, earning him respect from political adversaries as well.
Focus on Advani’s Ideals:
The decision to confer Bharat Ratna upon Lal Krishna Advani underscores his dedication to national unity, cultural revival, and political morality. It is a fitting tribute to a leader whose principles have left an indelible mark on Indian politics. The honor reflects not only his political contributions but also his vision for a united and culturally vibrant India.
Previous Awardees and Recognition:
Advani’s impending Bharat Ratna follows the announcement of conferring the honor posthumously to former Chief Minister of Bihar, Karpoori Thakur, on January 23. This recognition adds Advani’s name to the distinguished list of 48 individuals who have been honored with Bharat Ratna thus far.
Conclusion:
As Lal Krishna Advani prepares to receive the Bharat Ratna at the age of 96, the nation acknowledges the profound impact of his contributions to Indian politics. His journey from a founding member of the BJP to the Deputy Prime Minister has been one of dedication, leadership, and statesmanship. The honor not only recognizes Advani’s political achievements but also his commitment to ethical governance, national unity, and cultural resurgence.
In the tapestry of Indian politics, Shri Lal Krishna Advani’s contributions form a rich and intricate pattern. From his early days as a political activist to becoming a Deputy Prime Minister, his journey is a testament to resilience, conviction, and leadership. Despite controversies, his influence endures, and his legacy continues to shape the contours of the political landscape. As a stalwart of the BJP and a statesman of India, Advani’s contributions have left an indelible mark on the nation’s political history.
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