Tributes paid to Vajpayee at condolence meet in Gujarat

Politicians of various hues in Gujarat, religious heads and industrialists paid rich tributes today to former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at a condolence meet held in Ahmedabad.

Apart from politicians of the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress, Governor O P Kohli, professionals as well as people from various walks of life attended the all-party prayer meet held at the Gujarat University auditorium.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani remembered Vajpayee as the true "Lok Hriday Samrat" (ruler of hearts) who was loved by all.

He said Vajpayee had dedicated every moment of his life for the country.

"With new zeal and open heart, Atalji guided everybody and kept all political parties together," Rupani said.

He said Vajpayee displayed strong resolve and love for the country by conducting nuclear tests in Pokhran when he was prime minister.

Governor Kohli said Vajpayee's death marked the end of an era.

"Vajpayee took initiatives to improve ties with neighbouring Pakistan and won the hearts of Kashmiris," he said.

Paresh Dhanani, Leader of Opposition in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, spoke about "trusting" relations between Vajpayee and the leaders of Congress, which he said was a great example of leadership.

Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel recalled the contributions made by Vajpayee in "bringing Kutch district back to life after a devastating earthquake had hit the region".

"Vajpayee, who was the prime minister at the time of the calamity, had announced a special package for investment in Kutch and had offered Excise duty waiver to the Indian industry, which brought in huge investment and jobs in the district," he said.

Former chief minister Shankersinh Vaghela recalled Vajpayee as a "true champion of 'Akhand Bharat' (united India)" and "a true humanist".

Among others, former chief minister Suresh Mehta, industrialists Parimal Nathwani and Karsan Patel also attended the programme.