Bengaluru: The announcement of Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of the country, for veteran BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani has been welcomed by Karnataka BJP leader R Ashok, who expressed his happiness and gratitude to the Central Government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“Today I am happy that LK Advani has been conferred with Bharat Ratna and I welcome the decision of the Central Government. I thank the government and PM Modi for this decision, which is a recognition of Advani’s lifelong dedication to the nation and the party,” Ashok said in a statement.
Ashok, who is the Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, praised Advani as one of the co-founders of the BJP and a stalwart of the Indian politics, who played a vital role in popularizing and strengthening the party, which emerged as one of the strongest political forces in India.
“Advani is a visionary leader, who has contributed immensely to the development and security of the country. He has also inspired and mentored many young leaders, including me, with his wisdom and guidance. He is a true Bharat Ratna in every sense of the word,” Ashok added.
Advani, who served as the Deputy Prime Minister of India from 2002 to 2004 and the Home Minister from 1998 to 2004, is the 50th recipient of the Bharat Ratna, which is conferred in recognition of exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavour.
The Prime Minister announced the award for Advani on Saturday, along with another freedom fighter and former Chief Minister of Bihar Karpoori Thakur, who was honoured posthumously.
The Bharat Ratna recipients receive a Sanad (certificate) signed by the President and a peepal leaf-shaped medallion. There is no monetary grant associated with the award. Bharat Ratna recipients rank seventh in the Indian order of precedence
