New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the passing away of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee marked the end of an era, and termed it as a “personal and irreplaceable” loss. He said the BJP patriarch lived for the nation and served it assiduously for decades, while noting that it was Vajpayee’s exemplary leadership that set the foundations for a strong, prosperous and inclusive India in the 21st century.
Vajpayee died at the AIIMS hospital this evening at the age of 93 following prolonged illness.
“Atal Ji’s passing away is a personal and irreplaceable loss for me. I have countless fond memories with him. He was an inspiration to Karyakartas like me. I will particularly remember his sharp intellect and outstanding wit,” Modi tweeted. “It was Atal Ji’s exemplary leadership that set the foundations for a strong, prosperous and inclusive India in the 21st century. His futuristic policies across various sectors touched the lives of each and every citizen of India.”
He said it was due to Vajpayee’s perseverance and struggles that the BJP was built brick by brick. “He travelled across the length and breadth of India to spread the BJP’s message, which led to the BJP becoming a strong force in our national polity and in several states,” he said.
Modi said India grieves the demise of Vajpayee. “My thoughts are with his family, BJP Karyakartas and millions of admirers in this hour of sadness. Om Shanti,” he added.