Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday acknowledged Amit Shah as the longest-serving Home Minister of India. He made this statement during a meeting with MPs from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Modi’s comment not only praised Shah’s tenure but also hinted that this could be just the start of something greater.
While speaking at the meeting, Modi said, “Yeh to abhi shuruwat hai…abhi aur aage jaana hai (This is just the beginning… he has a long way to go).” A person who attended the meeting shared this quote.
Shah Breaks Record Held by LK Advani
Amit Shah took over as Home Minister in May 2019. He has now completed 2,258 days in office, surpassing LK Advani’s record of 2,256 days. Advani held the post from March 1998 to May 2004. Before both of them, India’s first Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, served for 1,218 days.
The BJP praised Shah’s achievements in a post on social media platform X. The party noted his bold and historic decisions, such as the abrogation of Article 370, strong action against terrorism, and improving internal security.
Statement Sends a Clear Message
A senior BJP leader, who did not want to be named, said Modi’s words clearly show the strong bond between him and Shah. He added, “The PM’s statement seems to have put to rest doubts about the party hierarchy.”
Amit Shah has worked closely with Modi for many years. He was a key strategist for the BJP’s success in the 2014 general elections. Under his leadership, the party won 71 out of 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh. That same year, Shah became the BJP president, replacing Rajnath Singh, who was made Home Minister.
Shah Credited with Major Achievements
Another senior BJP leader praised Shah’s work and leadership. The leader said, “The PM’s endorsement is a recognition of his capacity and capability.” He credited Shah with reducing Left Wing Extremism, cutting terror funding, and driving core ideological moves, including the Abrogation of Article 370 and support for a Uniform Civil Code.
Modi also said during the meeting that he believes Left Wing Extremism (LWE) will end by 2026, showing his confidence in Shah’s leadership.
Track Record of Success
In 2017, Shah led the BJP’s return to power in Uttar Pradesh after 14 years. He also helped the party expand its base in Assam, Manipur, and Tripura—states where the BJP earlier had little presence.
As Home Minister, he pushed several key bills through Parliament. This includes the 2019 legislation that removed Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir.
Party Leaders React
Modi’s remarks led to a wave of praise for Shah on social media. Several BJP leaders shared congratulatory messages.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju wrote on X, "Heartfelt congratulations to Shri @amitshah ji on becoming the longest-serving Union Home Minister in India’s history. His unwavering resolve, from the abrogation of Article 370 to the firm stand against terrorism, continues to shape New India. Wishing him continued strength in building #ViksitBharat."