Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee who won the hearts of many across the political spectrum, had praised both Sonia Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, irrespective of political differences.
Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee who won the hearts of many across the political spectrum, had praised both Sonia Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, irrespective of political differences.
Vajpayee died at the AIIMS hospital in New Delhi on Thursday at the age of 93, following a prolonged illness.
The former Prime Minister praised the then Leader of Opposition in 2003, for honouring the rites of consensus on foreign policy and observing the rules of fair play. Vajpayee cited Sonia Gandhi's as evidence of the Indian democracy's vibrancy, reported the Hindu. He had also recalled how Gandhi had telephoned him, wanting to be assured of his safety when terrorists had attacked Parliament House in December 2001.
In a book by Ullekh NP, — the Untold Vajpayee: Politician and Paradox — an account is given as to how Rajiv Gandhi helped Vajpayee to go to the US for kidney treatment. "When Rajiv Gandhi was the Prime Minister, he somehow found out I had a kidney problem and needed treatment abroad. One day he called me to his office and said he was going to include me in India's delegation to the UN and hoped I would use the opportunity to get the treatment I needed. I went to New York and that is one reason I am alive today," the book quotes Atal Bihari Vajpayee as saying.
Vajpayee was an astute politician known for his great oratory skills and was one of the most respected leaders in the country's history. In her condolence message, Sonia Gandhi described Vajpayee as a "towering figure" who stood for democratic values and demonstrated this commitment in all his acts.
Expressing sadness over his demise, the former Congress chief said Vajpayee's warm personality and gift of friendship had won him admirers and friends across the political spectrum and from every walk of life. "I am deeply saddened by the passing away of Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee....His death leaves behind a huge void. I join millions of our fellow Indians in mourning his loss and pray for the departed soul," she said.
"Shri Vajpayee was a towering figure in our national life. Throughout his life, he stood for democratic values and demonstrated this commitment in all his acts, whether as a parliamentarian, a cabinet minister, or prime minister of India. He was a spellbinding orator, a leader of great vision, a patriot to the core for whom the national interest was paramount," Sonia Gandhi said.
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