Visakhapatnam: Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, unveiled a bronze statue of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Park Hotel Circle in Visakhapatnam. Addressing a large gathering of BJP workers and local residents, he lauded Vajpayee as a visionary leader who brought dignity to public office and won the hearts of millions through value-based politics.
Sanjay described Vajpayee as a ‘Bharat Ratna’ whose life journey, from humble beginnings to national leadership, was shaped by the discipline of the RSS. He recalled Vajpayee’s courage in conducting the Pokhran nuclear tests, his leadership during the Kargil War, and his ability to earn respect even from political opponents. He emphasized that Vajpayee’s ideals continue to inspire Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is fulfilling Vajpayee’s dream of a “Congress-free India.” Highlighting Andhra Pradesh’s progress under a “double-engine government,” Sanjay praised the state for rejecting corruption and moving towards development. He said that the benefits of a BJP-led government in Andhra Pradesh are inspiring the people of Telangana to consider a similar change. He assured that the BJP would form a double-engine government in Telangana as well, promising transparent and corruption-free administration.
The minister lauded Visakhapatnam as a city of beauty, struggle, and strength – a hub of the navy, industries, education, and culture. He stated that the development in Visakhapatnam benefits the entire country and recalled the commitment of Vajpayee and Modi to the city’s progress. The Union Minister also praised Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, calling him a visionary leader, and promised that the Modi government would assist in the future development of both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. He announced plans to install statues of Vajpayee in districts if the BJP comes to power in Telangana.
The event was enthusiastically attended by BJP leaders and supporters. Local leaders Vishnuvardhan Raju, Ghanta Srinivas Rao, and Satyakumar Yadav praised Bandi Sanjay as a “dynamic” and “sensational figure in Telangana politics.” The minister received a grand welcome in Visakhapatnam, attended a breakfast hosted at Ghanta Srinivas Rao’s residence, distributed CMRF checks, and visited the Mogalamma temple on Bhimili Road.
