New Delhi, 23 October (H.S.): Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and several other political leaders paid tribute on Friday to former Vice-President of India and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhairon Singh Shekhawat on his birth anniversary, recalling his contributions to public service, nation-building and the welfare of society.

Om Birla, in a post on the social media platform X, said Shekhawat had carved out a distinct identity in Indian politics through his visionary outlook, commitment to public welfare and nationalist ideals. He added that Shekhawat, affectionately known as ‘Babosa’, remained deeply connected to the soil of Rajasthan, while his dedication to the national interest would continue to serve as an enduring source of inspiration.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described Shekhawat’s life as an inspiring account of perseverance, public service and unwavering commitment to ethical values. He said Shekhawat’s deep connection with ordinary citizens, along with his steadfast dedication to honesty, integrity and transparency, would always be remembered. His contributions to the development of India, particularly Rajasthan, would remain an enduring part of the country’s political legacy, Singh added.

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah said Shekhawat had demonstrated that dedication and hard work could help achieve any goal, whether by translating public welfare initiatives into action as Rajasthan’s Chief Minister or by strengthening the party organisation in the state. Shah described his life, marked by simplicity, honesty and compassion, as an inexhaustible source of inspiration for everyone engaged in social work.

Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr Virendra Kumar paid his respects to the late former Vice-President and former Rajasthan Chief Minister on his birth anniversary. He said Shekhawat’s simple personality, unwavering commitment to public service and efforts to uplift disadvantaged sections of society would continue to inspire generations.

Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said Shekhawat’s exemplary life and lofty ideals would continue to motivate people to serve the nation and society and work towards the upliftment of weaker sections.

Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh said the values Shekhawat upheld in politics, his simple way of life and his ideals of public service would remain a lasting source of inspiration for the people of the country.

Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also paid homage to Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, fondly remembered as ‘Babosa’, on his birth anniversary.

Union Minister of State for Law and Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal described Shekhawat as an embodiment of simplicity, honesty and dynamic leadership. He said Shekhawat had devoted his entire life to public service, the welfare of the poor and the comprehensive development of Rajasthan. His unwavering commitment to democratic values and public welfare, Meghwal added, would continue to serve as a guiding light for all.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar