Atal Bihari Vajpayee (1998-2004)
1999
“As we stand at the sunset of the 20th century, and look back at the events of the era that has passed, we see the end of colonialism from Indian soil to be the most important development. Our great leaders, and many generations of our countrymen, waged a powerful struggle for independence. By doing so, they paved the way for the independence of other countries, too.”
On Kargil victory
“I offer my condolences to the valiant jawans, officers and others belonging to the Army and the Air Force, who displayed magnificent heroism and the spirit of sacrifice in recapturing that part of our Motherland in Kargil from the enemy. All of us bow our heads in gratitude for those who were martyred in the Kargil war.”
2002
“Our tributes also to the martyrs who foiled the terrorist attack on our Parliament on December 13. Terrorism has become a festering wound. It is an enemy of humanity. Our neighbour claims to oppose terrorism at the international level, but adopts double standards in the context of our region. After facing defeat in wars, it has resorted to cross-border terrorism for grabbing Kashmir. We wish to state once again that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. It will remain so.”
