Chitradurga (Karnataka), May 9 (IANS) BJP Central Parliamentary Committee member and former Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on Saturday described the BJP’s victory in West Bengal as a historic mandate and said democracy had triumphed in the state.

Addressing a large gathering in Chitradurga after being felicitated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah for completing 50 years in public life, Yediyurappa said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and HM Shah had worked shoulder to shoulder for the BJP’s success in West Bengal.

“Democracy has triumphed in Bengal. On behalf of the people, I congratulate Prime Minister Modi,” Yediyurappa said.

He further said PM Modi should continue leading the country for another 10 years so that India could emerge as the world’s leading nation.

“May India’s dreams be realised in the future,” he added.

Praising Home Minister Shah, Yediyurappa said: “Despite his heavy workload, HM Shah has come here. On the soil of Chitradurga, he shines like Veera Madakari Nayaka.”

He said he had dedicated the last 50 years of his life to serving the people of Karnataka and was not born with a “golden spoon in his mouth”.

“I rose as an ordinary man among ordinary people through unexpected turns in life. The people have carried me afloat in this ocean of affection at the Abhimanotsava,” he said.

Recalling his political journey, Yediyurappa said he had travelled extensively across the state to strengthen the BJP organisation and understand the hardships faced by the people.

“A life of constant struggle has given me strength. Born in Bookanakere and making Shikaripura my karmabhoomi, I worked for the welfare of farmers, the distressed and the poor,” he said.

Yediyurappa stated that while in office, he had worked to formulate schemes aimed at wiping the tears of mothers and sisters.

“I feel fulfilled for implementing the Bhagyalakshmi Bond scheme. I introduced as many welfare schemes as possible for farmers. I will never forget presenting a farmers’ budget. I prioritised interest-free loans and irrigation projects,” he said.

He said he had accepted struggle and organisation-building as a form of penance.

“The RSS gave me values and discipline. I never fought for power. I had never even dreamt of becoming Chief Minister. From a municipal post, I became Leader of the Opposition and later Chief Minister. The people of the state wanted all this. My 50-year political journey has become meaningful,” he said.

Yediyurappa also said pontiffs and seers from various mutts across Karnataka had attended the ‘Abhimanotsava’ programme.

“This is not the celebration of one individual. From Shikaripura to the steps of Vidhana Soudha, my political journey was shaped by tireless party workers. They are my strength, and I am grateful to them. This is a landmark day in my life. I remain indebted to the loving people of Karnataka who have showered me with affection,” he said.

“I am standing here not merely as a politician, but as a son of your household,” he added.

Referring to Chitradurga, Yediyurappa said it was the land of Madakari Nayaka and Onake Obavva, and a sacred place walked by saints.

“It gives me immense happiness that this Abhimanotsava has been organised here,” he said.

Standing amid what he described as an ocean of affection flowing in from every corner of Karnataka, Yediyurappa said he was at a loss for words.

“I am indebted to you for celebrating and honouring me after I spent 50 years of political life among you,” he said.

“I have always fought for the people. Till my last breath, I will not rest. As long as God gives me strength, I will continue working for the people,” he added.

–IANS

mka/pgh