Guwahati, 16 August (HS): BJP Assam Pradesh on Saturday paid floral tribute to Bharat Ratna and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his death anniversary at Vajpayee Bhawan, the state party headquarters. The program was led by State President Dilip Saikia, along with several senior leaders and party workers.

Speaking on the occasion, Saikia said that Vajpayee, the founder president of the BJP and former Prime Minister of India, would always be remembered for his role in building a New India and upholding the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of the nation. He recalled Vajpayee’s philosophy and inspiring message: “Chhote man se koi bada nahi hota, toote tan se koi khada nahi hota.”

Saikia also highlighted Vajpayee’s strong support for the Assam Movement, noting his memorable 45-minute speech in Parliament and his visit to South Kamrup during the agitation. As Prime Minister, Vajpayee introduced key initiatives for the Northeast, including the creation of the Ministry of DoNER, the Non-Lapsable Central Pool of Resources and a mandate for 10% of the Union Budget to be allocated to the region.

The BJP chief further recalled Vajpayee’s pivotal role in the signing of the 2003 Bodo Accord, which led to the establishment of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) and laid the foundation for peace and development in the region.

“Assam and the entire Northeast will always remain indebted to Vajpayee for his vision, love, and support,” Saikia said, adding that every BJP karyakarta pays heartfelt tribute to him as a poet, statesman, administrator and popular leader.

The solemn program was attended by BJP Assam Pradesh Organizational General Secretary GR Ravindra Raju, Vice President Ratna Singh, General Secretaries Rituparna Baruah and Anup Barman and several senior leaders and party workers.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash