New Delhi [India]: BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla on Wednesday criticized Congress’ “first family” for “continuously disrespecting great leaders” and expressed support for the Centre’s decision to build a memorial for former President Pranab Mukherjee. Poonawalla stated that the government’s move to dedicate a site within the Rashtriya Smriti complex at Rajghat for the memorial should be welcomed.
“Pranab Mukherjee was the president of the country who was awarded Bharat Ratna by PM Modi’s government, and now the government has announced to build a ‘Rashtriya Smriti’ – it should be welcomed,” Poonawalla told media. He added, “Congress’ first family is run by a narrow mind – who continuously disrespects its own great leaders… It is in Congress’ DNA – be it BR Ambedkar, Rajendra Prasad, or Sardar Patel – they disrespect every great leader.”
In response, Pranab Mukherjee’s daughter, Sharmistha Mukherjee, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his thoughtful gesture. While her family had never specifically asked for a memorial, Sharmistha appreciated that PM Modi took the initiative to honour her father’s legacy by allocating land for the memorial.
“My father always used to say that getting a memorial is similar to receiving state honours and it should never be asked for or demanded; it should always be offered,” Sharmistha said. “Our family never asked for it, but PM Modi thought about it and took this initiative to create this memorial in his honour.”
Abhijit Mukherjee, Pranab Mukherjee’s son, also celebrated the announcement, describing it as a significant moment for their family, West Bengal, Congress, and the entire nation. He noted that his father belonged to everyone and expressed his intention to send a letter of gratitude to PM Modi.
“It’s a great day for the family, West Bengal, Congress, and others. Pranab Mukherjee belongs to all,” said Abhijit. “I will send a thanks letter to him (PM Modi)… I am very happy that Congress stalwarts like former PM Manmohan Singh and former President Pranab Mukherjee are getting recognized by the party and the government.”
Sharmistha Mukherjee also shared her appreciation on social media, posting on X, “Called on PM Narendra Modi ji to express thanks and gratitude from the core of my heart for his government’s decision to create a memorial for Baba. It’s more cherished considering that we didn’t ask for it. Immensely touched by this unexpected but truly gracious gesture by PM.”
“Baba used to say that state honours shouldn’t be asked for, it should be offered. I’m so grateful that PM Modi did this to honour Baba’s memory. It doesn’t affect Baba where he is now – beyond applause or criticism. But for his daughter, words are not sufficient to express my joy,” Sharmistha added.