‘COMPASSIONATE AND DECISIVE’: PM PAYS TRIBUTE TO JAYALALITHAA

New Delhi, Feb 24, 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid rich tributes to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa on her birth anniversary, remembering her as a charismatic leader and an outstanding administrator who earned a permanent place in the hearts of the people.

“Remembering Jayalalithaa Ji on her birth anniversary. She has made a place in the hearts and minds of countless people as a charismatic leader and outstanding administrator. Her life journey was one of immense grit and determination,” said PM Modi in a post on X.

“As the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, she championed welfare-driven governance with a strong focus on women empowerment, social justice and inclusive development. She was both compassionate and decisive. I recall with great joy my interactions with her,” he added.

Sharing a clip from his monthly radio programme “Mann Ki Baat”, PM Modi praised Jayalalithaa as a widely admired and beloved leader whose contributions remain a powerful symbol of women’s leadership in Indian politics. During the broadcast, he said that whenever he visits Tamil Nadu, he continues to sense the deep affection people hold for her.

“The mention of Amma Jayalalithaa brings a glow to the faces of the people of Tamil Nadu,” he said, noting her special bond with ‘Nari Shakti’ and her efforts to improve the welfare of mothers, sisters and daughters. He also commended her firm approach to maintaining law and order and her pride in India’s cultural heritage.

Recalling their association, PM Modi said every meeting and conversation with her remains fresh in his memory. He noted that she attended two of his swearing-in ceremonies as Gujarat Chief Minister in 2002 and 2012, and that they frequently exchanged views on good governance. He also fondly remembered being invited by her to Chennai for Pongal, describing the gesture as unforgettable.

“She had great devotion to the nation and worked with commitment for its progress,” the Prime Minister said, adding that her public service continues to inspire.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to Jayalalithaa. “Tributes to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and people’s leader J. Jayalalithaa Ji on her Jayanti. Through her commitment to the welfare of the poor and empowerment of women, she reshaped Tamil Nadu’s development and ensured governance reached the last person. Her dedication to public service will always remain an inspiration,” HM Shah said in a post on X.

Fondly known as “Amma” by her supporters, Jayalalithaa remains one of the most influential figures in Tamil Nadu’s political history, with her legacy continuing to resonate across the state and beyond.