Days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi heaped effusive praise on Ghulam Nabi Azad, the senior Congress leader returned the favour on Sunday.
Addressing a gathering in Jammu, Azad said he appreciates the fact that the Prime Minister, who comes from humble beginnings, never tired to hide his true self
“I like lot of things about many leaders. I’m from a village and feel proud of it … even our PM hails from village and used to sell tea. We’re political rivals but I appreciate that he doesn’t hide his true self. Those who do, are living in bubble,” Azad said.
The Congress leader further said that despite travelling the world and staying at 5-star or 7-star hotels, he feels special joy when he spends time with people from his village.
Earlier this month, the Prime Minister gave an emotional farewell to Azad whose Rajya Sabha tenure ended during the Budget session.
Modi broke down several times in the Upper House while reminiscing his close association with the Congress leader.
“I worry that after Azad whosoever will take over from him will have to fill very big boots because he cared not only about his party but about the country as well as the House. This is not a small thing, this a big thing.”
“Power comes and goes but (only a few know) how to digest it…therefore like a friend, I respect him on the basis of the things he has done over these years,” Modi had said while wiping his tears and saluting Azad.
Azad is part of the ‘G23’ camp in the Congress comprising senior leaders who have been raising questions over the party’s functioning and leadership.
