Veteran leader and jurist Shri Olanchery Rajagopal has been conferred the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, for his distinguished contributions to public affairs, particularly in the state of Kerala. A seasoned statesman, senior advocate, and former Union Minister, Shri Rajagopal has been a towering figure in India’s political and legal landscape for over six decades.
Shri O. Rajagopal began his career as a lawyer and quickly earned a reputation for his legal acumen and commitment to justice. His foray into politics saw him become a key figure in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), where he emerged as one of the party’s earliest leaders from South India.
He served as Minister of State for Railways, Defence, and Law & Justice in the Vajpayee government, where he was known for reform-driven leadership, integrity, and development-focused governance.
In 2016, Shri Rajagopal made history by becoming the first-ever BJP MLA elected to the Kerala Legislative Assembly, marking a significant milestone for the party in the state. His tenure as an MLA was marked by constructive debate, policy insight, and a commitment to democratic values.
The Padma Bhushan award honours Shri Rajagopal’s lifelong dedication to public service, legal reform, and democratic values. Known for his calm demeanour, principled politics, and people-centric vision, he continues to be an inspiration to young leaders across the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded his legacy, stating:
“Shri O. Rajagopal has served the nation with unmatched dedication and wisdom. His work in law and governance has left an indelible mark on India’s democratic journey.”
With this honour, India celebrates a leader whose integrity, intellect, and service have contributed meaningfully to the nation’s legal and political fabric.
