New Delhi, August 24(HS):

Senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the broader political spectrum on Sunday paid glowing tributes to former Union Finance Minister and BJP stalwart Arun Jaitley on his death anniversary, recalling him as a visionary leader, a formidable parliamentarian, and a man of unmatched eloquence who left an enduring imprint on India’s polity and governance.

The BJP described Jaitley as “a distinguished scholar, eloquent orator, eminent lawyer, capable administrator and former Union Minister”, emphasizing his indelible contribution to both the party and the nation.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in a heartfelt message on social media X, remembered the late leader as a man of “sharp intellect and effective oratory” who dedicated his entire public life to strengthening the governance framework of the country. “Jaitley Ji contributed immensely towards propagating the BJP’s ideals and vision and worked tirelessly for the welfare of the people. His unwavering commitment to public service will continue to inspire young leaders and policymakers,” Shah wrote.

A Life in Public Service

Born on December 28, 1952, Arun Jaitley’s journey spanned the worlds of law, politics, and governance. A student leader during the 1970s, he first rose to prominence during the JP movement and was imprisoned during the Emergency — a formative political experience that defined his lifelong principled opposition to authoritarianism.

A trained lawyer and senior advocate at the Supreme Court, Jaitley was known for his razor-sharp legal acumen and persuasive arguments. His transition to active politics soon saw him emerge as one of the BJP’s most articulate national spokespersons, who could defend policy with clarity and finesse in both Hindi and English.

Key Political Roles and Reforms

Jaitley served in multiple roles in government, including as the Minister for Law and Justice, Commerce, Information and Broadcasting, and Defence. However, his tenure as Union Finance Minister in the Modi government (2014–2019) remains the most defining phase of his political career.

He steered landmark economic reforms, notably piloting the introduction of Goods and Services Tax (GST) — India’s most ambitious tax reform since Independence. Jaitley also played a central role in measures such as the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, recapitalisation of banks, and streamlining of fiscal policies aimed at strengthening India’s economic fundamentals.

Apart from his contributions in governance, colleagues recalled his ability to build consensus across party lines, his skill in parliamentary debate, and his sharp political strategy-making that often guided the BJP during crucial moments.

Legacy of a Stalwart

Arun Jaitley passed away on August 24, 2019, at the age of 66. His demise was widely mourned across the political spectrum, with leaders describing him as a “bridge-builder” and a statesman whose clarity of thought shaped major policy decisions.

On his death anniversary, as leaders paid their respects, the memory of his intellect, conviction, and persuasive oratory reverberated across the Indian political landscape. To his party and admirers, Jaitley remains not only an able minister and strategist but also a mentor whose contributions will continue to shape India’s democratic and economic journey.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar