Congratulating Sachin Tendulkar, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today said he "richly deserved" the Bharat Ratna.
"As the worthiest sports star, he richly deserves the Bharat Ratna, which I have been voicing for the last few years," Banerjee said in a Facebook post.
"Congratulations Sachin, move ahead Sachin. I wish him long life and brighter future. We are proud of you".
The post said "Sachin Tendulkar is an icon of Indian and world cricket. Legends are forever. They only move from one field to another, leaving behind their unmistakable mark of excellence.
"His sportsmanship qualities, talents, sense of perfection, dedication and loving nature will still be available not only in the field of sports but even in other fields," Banerjee said.
