Nation Remembers Rajiv Gandhi: PM Modi, Congress Leaders Mark Death Anniversary
On the 34th death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, India paid solemn tribute to his legacy, with leaders across party lines remembering his contributions to modernization, youth empowerment, and observing Anti-Terrorism Day in his honor.
"India observed the 34th death anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi, the former Prime Minister assassinated by an LTTE suicide bomber in Tamil Nadu in 1991, on May 21 Political leaders, citizens, and students across the country commemorated the day with heartfelt tributes and anti-terrorism pledges, honoring Gandhi's enduring legacy and vision for a modern India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged Rajiv Gandhi's contributions in a message circulated by ANI, showcasing a rare moment of cross-party appreciation. Modi highlighted Gandhi’s leadership as the last Congress Prime Minister to command a full majority government and praised his pivotal role in spearheading India’s IT revolution and modern development. His message reflected bipartisan respect for Gandhi's place in India’s political history.
Emotional Homage at Veer Bhumi
Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and other senior Congress leaders assembled at Veer Bhumi, Rajiv Gandhi's memorial in Delhi, to pay their respects Rahul Gandhi, in an emotional post on social media platform X, shared a childhood photo with the words: “Papa, your memories guide me… I will fulfill your unfulfilled dreams.” Other senior Congress figures like P. Chidambaram and Sachin Pilot also paid their respects, reaffirming Gandhi's progressive vision and lasting impact on the Indian youth and democratic structures.
Anti-Terrorism Day Observed Nationwide
Since Rajiv Gandhi’s assassination is regarded as a brutal act of terror, May 21 is also marked as Anti-Terrorism Day in India. Various schools, government offices, and National Security Guard (NSG) units observed the day with anti-terror pledges and awareness events. According to DD News, nearly 2,000 students in Delhi took part in ceremonies emphasizing peace and resilience.
A Legacy Beyond Politics
Despite serving only until 1989, his term was marked by transformative reforms in technology, grassroots democracy through Panchayati Raj, and attempts at regional peace through accords in Punjab, Assam, and Mizoram. While his tenure faced controversies—most notably the Bofors scandal—his forward-looking policies laid the groundwork for India’s future in the digital age. Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar noted Gandhi’s role in bringing technology and democratic access to rural India, cementing his status as a reformer who dared to dream big.
A Moment of National Reflection
As India continues to grapple with challenges of extremism and development, Rajiv Gandhi’s death anniversary served as both a day of remembrance and a call for national unity. The tributes, spanning party lines and generations, reflected a collective commitment to the ideals Gandhi espoused—progress, secularism, and a strong, modern India.
