In a momentous announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani will be honored with the prestigious Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award. Describing Advani’s contributions as “monumental,” the Prime Minister expressed deep emotions, highlighting the stalwart’s decades-long service in public life marked by transparency, integrity, and unwavering commitment to political ethics.
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Early Life and Political Beginnings for LK Advani
Born in Karachi on November 8, 1927, LK Advani’s political journey began when he joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 1942. His relocation to Delhi from Sindh during the Partition in 1947 marked a significant turn in his life. Advani entered mainstream politics in the early 1950s, assisting Atal Bihari Vajpayee and newly elected Jana Sangh MPs in their parliamentary work. Advani’s political career took a turn in 1958 when he became the secretary of the Delhi State Jana Sangh.
Life in Politics:
Advani’s political innings saw him occupy various significant party and government posts, including Deputy Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition, and BJP President. His role in establishing the BJP as the political arm of the RSS, following the dissolution of the Janata Party government, showcased his strategic acumen.
The Ram Temple Movement:
One of Advani’s defining moments was his leadership in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. In 1986, as BJP president, he formalized the party’s support for the Vishwa Hindu Parishad’s (VHP) demand to build a Ram Temple. The movement gained momentum with the Rath Yatra in 1990, starting from Somnath to Ayodhya. The yatra, marked by public support and controversies, culminated in the demolition of the Babri Masjid on December 6, 1992. This event significantly propelled Advani and the BJP onto the center stage of national politics
Political Achievements:
Advani’s political acumen is often credited for steering the BJP from two parliamentary seats in 1984 to forming a government within 15 years. Serving as Deputy Prime Minister under Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Advani played a crucial role in shaping the party’s identity and policies. Despite the setbacks in the 2004 general elections, he continued to lead the BJP as its president.
Controversies and Challenges:
LK Advani’s political career was not without controversies. In 1991, he faced scrutiny over large-scale payments to national leaders during the Hawala scandal, although the case was later disposed of due to lack of evidence. Another significant controversy arose during his 2005 visit to Pakistan when he referred to Muhammad Ali Jinnah as a secular leader, leading to his resignation as BJP president. In 2014, following Narendra Modi’s anointment as BJP campaign committee chairman, Advani resigned from all party posts.
Prime Minister Modi’s Announcement:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent announcement regarding the Bharat Ratna for LK Advani has been met with widespread acclaim. In a heartfelt social media post, Modi expressed the privilege of having interacted with and learned from Advani. The announcement emphasized Advani’s unwavering commitment to transparency, integrity, and his unparalleled efforts in promoting national unity and cultural resurgence.
LK Advani’s journey from a Swayamsevak to a key architect in the rise of the BJP stands as a testament to his resilience, strategic leadership, and political foresight. The Bharat Ratna, to be conferred upon him, acknowledges his monumental contributions to Indian politics. As the nation looks back on Advani’s storied career, it is evident that his impact on shaping the political landscape of India remains indelible.