On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, on his 60th death anniversary. In a post on X, PM Modi said, “I pay homage to former PM Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Ji on his death anniversary.”
The Congress party also honored Nehru on his death anniversary. Party chief Mallikarjun Kharge highlighted Nehru’s incomparable contribution to India’s history, calling him “the architect of modern India.” Kharge, along with former Congress president Sonia Gandhi, paid floral tributes at Nehru’s memorial ‘Shantivan.’
In a post on X, Kharge emphasized Nehru’s role in advancing India scientifically, economically, and industrially. He called Nehru a dedicated guardian of democracy and a source of inspiration. “Our humble tribute to ‘Hind ke Jawahar’ on his death anniversary,” Kharge said. He quoted Nehru on national unity and equality, noting the Congress party’s continued commitment to these principles.
Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi also paid respects to his great-grandfather. “Respectful tributes to the architect of modern India and the first Prime Minister of the country, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, on his death anniversary,” Gandhi posted on X. He praised Nehru’s lifelong dedication to India’s freedom, democracy, secularism, and the Constitution.
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh shared reflections on Nehru’s last days and his enduring influence. Ramesh recalled Nehru’s final press interaction on May 22, 1964, and his last days in Dehradun and New Delhi. He noted Nehru’s admiration for the Buddha, pointing out that Nehru’s last day coincided with Buddha Purnima, and his final letter was to a Buddhist.
Ramesh highlighted Nehru’s historical vision, linking India’s ancient heritage with the new republic. This connection is reflected in the use of Emperor Ashoka’s symbols, the chakra in the national flag, and the Sarnath lion capital as the national emblem. Nehru, India’s first and longest-serving prime minister, passed away in office in 1964.
