Venkaiah Naidu: An unwavering commitment to public service, Bharat
garu turns 75. This is an occasion to celebrate a leader whose life journey showcases dedication, adaptability and an unwavering commitment to public service. From his early days in the political arena to his tenure as vice president, Naidu’s career exemplifies his unique ability to navigate the complexities of Indian politics with ease and humility.
His eloquence, wit and steadfast focus on developmental issues have earned him respect across party lines.Naidu and I have been associated with each other for decades. We have worked together and I have also learnt a lot from him. If there is one thing that has remained common in his life, it is the love for people.
His brush with activism and politics began in Andhra Pradesh with student politics. He preferred to work with the Sangh Parivar because he was inspired by the vision of ‘nation first’.When the Emergency was imposed almost 50 years ago, an young Naidu immersed himself in the anti-Emergency movement. He was imprisoned for inviting Loknayak JP to Andhra Pradesh.
This commitment to democracy would be seen time and again in his political career. In the mid-1980s, when NTR’s government was unceremoniously dismissed by the Congress, he was again at the forefront of the movement to protect democratic principles. Naidu has always been comfortable swimming even against the most formidable tides.
In 1978, Andhra Pradesh voted for the Congress but he beat the trend and was elected as an MLA. Five years later, when the NTR tsunami swept the state, he got elected as a MLA, paving the way for BJP’s growth in the state.All those who have heard Naidu speak will vouch for his oratory skills. He is certainly a wordsmith but he is as much a worksmith.
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