Led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President J P Nadda, the party on Monday paid tributes to the founder of the Bharatiya Jan Sangh (BJP), a precursor to the BJP, Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 119th birth anniversary as they cited his “exemplary contributions” to country’s unity and the recent scrapping of Article 370 which, the party said, was inspired by his sacrifice.

“I bow to Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his Jayanti. A devout patriot, he made exemplary contributions towards India’s development. He made courageous efforts to further India’s unity. His thoughts and ideals give strength to millions across the nation,” Modi tweeted while remembering the BJS leader who passed away in Kashmir while demanding its “complete integration” in the  country.

The BJP President said it is the act of sacrifice of Mookerjee that article 370 that until recently provided special status to J&K was scarped  under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the strategy of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

“Apna desh apni maati, ek desh, ek Pradhan, ek vidhan, ek Nishan ka sapna pura kar rahen hain”, he said recollecting Mookerjee’s assertion that one nation can not have two Constitution, two PMs and two flags.

Nadda  who paid tribute to the late leader at BJP headquarters here said Mookerjee’s ideals were a “unique blend of regional aspirations and national unity”. BJP Chief said BJS founder sowed the seed of Jammu and Kashmir’s development through his slogan, “Ek desh mein do vidhaan, do nishaan, do pradhaan nahin chalega (One country can’t have two constitutions, two leaders and two national emblems).

While praising the  vision of Mookherjee, he said the first Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru had adopted a flawed policy of “appeasement”.

Mookerjee was part of  Nehru’s Cabinet and resigned following  differences with the latter over Liaquat pact. With the help of the RSS, he founded the BJS in 1951. Mookerjee was also the president of Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha from 1943 to 1946.

Home Minister in his tribute to Mookerjee said, he will “always be remembered for his efforts in making Kashmir an integral part of India. He will continue to inspire people for his sacrifice for upholding India’s unity and integrity.”