President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have expressed grief at the passing away of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
President Kovind described Vajpayee as a true Indian statesman saying his leadership, foresight, maturity and eloquence put him in a league of his own. He said Atalji, the Gentle Giant, will be missed by one and all.
In his condolence message, Vice President Naidu said Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a friendly and lovable Prime Minister. He said in his passing away, India has lost a multi-faceted ‘Ratna. The Vice President said, Vajpayee’s life was an open book and guide for aspiring young politicians.
Describing him as a visionary thinker, writer, poet and philosopher, he said, the former Prime Minister’s 70 years of public life and parliamentary contributions are now part of India’s history.
In his condolence message, Mr Modi said, India grieves the demise of the beloved leader and his passing away marks the end of an era. He said it was Vajpayee’s exemplary leadership that set the foundations for a strong, prosperous and inclusive India in the 21st century.
Mr Modi also said that the futuristic policies of the former Prime Minister across various sectors touched the lives of each and every citizen of India.
The Prime Minister said it is a personal and irreplaceable loss for him as he has countless fond memories. He said, Vajpayee was inspiration to BJP party workers like him and will be remembered for his sharp intellect and outstanding wit.
Mr Modi said that it was due to the perseverance and struggles of Atal Bihari Vajpayee that the BJP was built brick by brick.
