Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, along with other Congress leaders including Sachin Pilot, paid floral tribute to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 34th death anniversary at Veer Bhumi, Delhi.
In a post on X, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge hailed Rajiv Gandhi as “a great son of India,” emphasizing his pivotal role in preparing India for the 21st century through initiatives like lowering the voting age to 18, strengthening Panchayati Raj, and spearheading the telecom and IT revolution. Kharge also highlighted his contributions to a computerization program, peace accords, a universal immunization program, and a new education policy.
Sachin Pilot, in his own X post, remembered Rajiv Gandhi as a visionary leader whose progressive outlook and modern thinking elevated India. He stated that Gandhi’s contributions remain an inspiration.
The Congress party’s official X handle also paid tribute, noting that Rajiv Gandhi’s role in shaping modern India is “unforgettable” and that his vision, focus on science and technology, and youth empowerment continue to inspire.
Former Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar underscored Rajiv Gandhi’s foundational work for Digital India and the IT and telecom revolution. Shivakumar also shared a personal connection, describing Gandhi as a mentor who inspired and empowered him, and highlighting Gandhi’s special affection for Karnataka.
Rajiv Gandhi became India’s youngest Prime Minister at 40 in October 1984, taking charge of the Congress party after his mother, then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, was assassinated. He served until December 2, 1989. Born on August 20, 1944, Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated on May 21, 1991, by a Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suicide bomber during an election rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu.
