New Delhi, 17 April (H.S.):

Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, and Union Ministers paid poignant tribute Friday to former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar on his birth anniversary, evoking his visionary leadership, fearless parliamentary interventions, and unyielding commitment to democratic values.

At a prayer meeting in Jan Nayak Sthal, Radhakrishnan hailed Chandra Shekhar as a prescient leader and robust advocate for democracy. Birla lauded him as an emblem of intrepid, principle-driven politics, centering public welfare and social justice throughout his career.

Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari reminisced on his humility and nation-building zeal, while Giriraj Singh portrayed him as the archetype of simplicity, struggle, and ideological integrity—best known as a Young Turk who boldly challenged malgovernance, most notably through his defiance of Indira Gandhi that reshaped national politics.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat extolled Chandra Shekhar's courage and self-respect, always prioritizing national interest. Leaders collectively recommitted to emulating his ideals of valor, modesty, and selfless service to the republic.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar