Politics is a Sacred Responsibility for Public Service, Not a Tool for Power: Rajnath Singh

New Delhi: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that politics should not be viewed as a medium to acquire power, but rather as a sacred responsibility toward public service. He emphasized that democracy remains sustainable only when it is guided by character, morality, and integrity.

The Defence Minister was speaking at the unveiling ceremony of the portraits of former Prime Minister Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Bharat Ratna Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya at the Delhi Legislative Assembly.

He remarked that both legendary leaders established the highest standards of moral honesty, democratic responsibility, and commitment to the nation. Their public conduct continues to serve as a guiding light for ethical politics, unity of purpose, and prioritizing long-term national interests. On this occasion, a coffee table book titled 'Bharat Mata' was also released.

Rajnath Singh noted that the unveiling of these portraits holds special significance as the nation celebrates the birth centenary of the revered Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He described the Delhi Legislative Assembly not merely as a building, but as a "living institution" where India’s democratic consciousness has evolved through thought, deliberation, and dialogue.

Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta described the day as a moment of pride and joy for the House. He highlighted that both Bharat Ratna recipients shared a birthday on December 25 and were jointly conferred with the nation’s highest civilian honor by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014. He added that the unveiling by the Defence Minister sends a powerful national message from the Delhi Assembly, noting that the vision and direction of modern India are unimaginable without their contributions.

Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta called the two icons symbols of the "Nation First" resolve, honesty, foresight, and public welfare. She stated that their portraits in the House would continue to inspire future generations toward national service, good governance, and value-based leadership.

Recalling Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya’s contributions to education and the freedom struggle, she mentioned that the establishment of various institutions, including Banaras Hindu University (BHU), is a testament to his visionary approach. Describing Atal Bihari Vajpayee as a "Yugpurush" (man of the era), the Chief Minister said the foundation of development and national unity laid by him is the basis for India’s rapid progress today.