Himachal Leaders Unite in Tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee's Legacy

In a remarkable display of bipartisan admiration, leaders across political spectrums in Himachal Pradesh paid heartfelt tributes to the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his death anniversary. Vajpayee, remembered predominantly for his statesmanship, greatly influenced the hill state which he considered his second home.

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla reflected on Vajpayee's exemplary ethical standards in politics, recounting a memorable instance when Vajpayee refused to compromise integrity to save his minority government, choosing instead to respect democratic processes. 'His leadership inspired a collective admiration across party lines,' Shukla noted while expressing his own personal reverence.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu also lauded Vajpayee's non-partisan approach, citing his time representing India at the United Nations under a Congress government as a testament to his national stature. Vajpayee's affection for Himachal, where he often stayed and wrote poetry, was highlighted.

Notably, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri emphasized the former Prime Minister's liberal values and his widespread respect across political boundaries. As Himachal Pradesh paid homage, Vajpayee's contributions reemerged, reminding the nation of his historic tenure as a three-time Prime Minister and his enduring legacy commemorated by a statue at Shimla's Ridge Maidan.

(With inputs from agencies.)