Jaipur, Oct 23 — Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat paid tribute to former Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, describing him as an ‘Ajatshatru’ of modern politics, a leader with no enemies, and an ideal public servant who remained connected to the common people.
Speaking to the media on the occasion of his birth anniversary, the Union Minister said Bhairon Singh Shekhawat rose from an ordinary family to the office of Vice President through hard work, perseverance, political acumen and his deep understanding of public concerns.
He said Shekhawat’s political journey, marked by challenges and ups and downs, set an example for leaders across generations. Many politicians in Rajasthan and other parts of North India had benefited from his guidance and experience, learning from his leadership and administrative approach.
Describing him as a towering banyan tree of Indian politics, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said the former Vice President maintained close ties with Rajasthan even after assuming the country’s high constitutional office.
He continued to nurture relationships with villages, hamlets, known locally as dhanis, and panchayats.
Highlighting Shekhawat’s contribution to public welfare, the Union Minister said the Antyodaya scheme reflected his commitment to improving the lives of poor and disadvantaged communities.
During his tenure as Rajasthan Chief Minister, beginning in 1977, initiatives related to food grain distribution and food-for-work programmes were undertaken to support vulnerable sections of society. Shekhawat said these measures demonstrated the importance of inclusive governance and ensuring that public welfare initiatives reached those most in need.
He also highlighted the former Chief Minister’s role in expanding grassroots political participation through Panchayati Raj institutions.
According to the minister, elections to these institutions on party symbols helped the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) strengthen its organisational presence in villages, remote settlements and tribal areas across Rajasthan.
Referring to the ongoing Panchayati Raj elections, the Union Minister expressed confidence that the BJP would receive public support similar to that witnessed in the local body elections.
He claimed that the BJP had secured support in more than 70 per cent of urban local bodies across Rajasthan. In western Rajasthan, he said, the party had formed governing boards in 36 of the 41 local bodies.
Shekhawat expressed confidence that this support would translate into a strong performance in the Panchayati Raj elections.