New Delhi [India], May 27 (HBTV): Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Tuesday paid tribute to India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, on his 61st death anniversary.

In a post on X, Gandhi recalled Nehru’s visionary leadership and his foundational role in shaping independent India.

‘Respectful tribute to the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru ji on his death anniversary. With the dream of a strong and inclusive India, Nehruji laid a strong foundation for independent India with his visionary leadership. His contribution in the establishment of social justice, modernity, education, constitution and democracy is invaluable. The legacy of Jawahar of India and his ideals will always guide us,’ Gandhi stated.

Earlier in the day, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi paid floral tribute to Nehru at his memorial Shanti Van in Delhi.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also paid homage to Nehru, calling him the architect of modern India. In a post on X, he said, ‘Humble tributes on the death anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru ji, the creator of modern India, the fearless guardian of democracy, the one who took India from zero to the peak, the one who made India develop in scientific, economic, industrial and various fields, the one who constantly gave the message of “unity in diversity” to the country, our source of inspiration. 21st century India cannot be imagined without the contribution of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.’

The Congress party, through its official X handle, also commemorated Nehru's contribution, stating: ‘On his death anniversary, we honour the nation's first Prime Minister, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, whose vision shaped modern India. His ideals of democracy, secularism & scientific temper continue to guide our way forward. Heartfelt tributes to his unmatched legacy & leadership.’

Jawaharlal Nehru was a prominent freedom fighter who played a key role in India's independence movement and went on to serve as the first Prime Minister from 1947 until his death on May 27, 1964, due to a heart attack. He was succeeded by Lal Bahadur Shastri.

Nehru is widely recognised as the pioneer of India’s Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). Affectionately called ‘Chacha Nehru’ for his love for children, his birth anniversary on November 14 is celebrated as Children’s Day across India.

(ANI)