Atal Bihari Vajpayee Set the Gold Standard of Democratic Politics: CM Yogi Adityanath
Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday described former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as an unparalleled statesman who elevated Indian politics for nearly six decades by blending power with principle, governance with compassion, and politics with dialogue.
Addressing the ‘Atal Geet Ganga’ programme alongside Defence Minister and Lucknow MP Rajnath Singh, the Chief Minister released a commemorative booklet titled ‘Atal Mahanayak’ on the eve of Vajpayee’s 101st birth anniversary.
CM Yogi recalled that Vajpayee consistently upheld the spirit of democracy by maintaining open dialogue with the Opposition, even during times of intense political confrontation.
“By successfully running coalition governments, Atal Ji proved that in a strong democracy, dissent is not a weakness but a strength that deserves respect,” he said.
He noted that Vajpayee steadfastly protected the independence of democratic institutions, including the judiciary, the Election Commission and the media, setting benchmarks that continue to guide India’s constitutional ethos.
Good Governance as a living legacy
Referring to Vajpayee’s birth anniversary being observed as Good Governance Day, the Chief Minister said it serves as a reminder of Atal Ji’s administrative reforms, transparent decision-making and corruption-free governance.
“His leadership showed that governance can be firm yet humane, decisive yet inclusive,” he added.
An episode that defined Atal Ji’s democratic spirit
Recalling one of the most defining episodes of Vajpayee’s political life, CM Yogi referred to his historic 1996 resignation speech in Parliament, when Vajpayee, as Prime Minister, stepped down after failing to secure a majority.
In that address, Atal Ji stated with dignity that governments may fall, but democracy must stand tall.
That moment, widely remembered for its grace and moral strength, symbolised his belief that power is temporary, but principles are permanent—a philosophy that continues to resonate across party lines.
Poet at heart, statesman in action
The Chief Minister said Vajpayee elevated Indian politics for six decades by infusing it with values, ideals and cultural depth.
“He showed that leaders, regardless of their political affiliations, can leave an indelible mark while preserving their integrity,” he said.
Quoting Vajpayee’s iconic poem ‘Haar Nahi Manunga’, CM Yogi observed that its lines continue to inspire citizens facing adversity. “Atal Ji had a poet’s sensitivity, but he worked with iron determination for the nation,” he said.
He highlighted that Vajpayee’s visionary leadership transformed rural development, strengthened urban connectivity, and expanded public welfare systems, laying foundations that continue to benefit the country.
Describing Vajpayee as a poet, writer, journalist and visionary statesman, CM Yogi said he was respected across India and admired globally.
“Atal Bihari Vajpayee remains an unparalleled figure in Indian politics—one whose life teaches us that power gains meaning only when guided by ethics, dialogue and national interest,” he concluded.
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