The Maharashtra cabinet, on Thursday, passed a resolution requesting the Centre to confer 'Bharat Ratna', the country's highest civilian award, on late businessman Ratan Tata.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde chaired a cabinet meeting to pay homage to the late Tata who passed away on Wednesday night. During the meeting, a motion of condolence was passed and a resolution urging the Centre to confer the Bharat Ratna.
"...It requires love for the country and honest feelings for society upliftment. We have lost a visionary leader who was committed to the country and the society. Tata's role in the industrial sector and upliftment of the society was unparalleled. He tackled all challenges by adhering to high morals, transparent and clean business administration with discipline," the condolence motion of the Maharashtra government read.
Ratan Tata is a recipient of Padma Vibhushan, the country's second highest civilian honour.
However, it is to be noted that Ratan Tata had always played down campaigns that sought Bharat Ratna for him.
In 2021, when there was an increased demand and social media campaigns, seeking the honour for him, the late businessman came out with a clarification saying he did not want such campaigns or wished for such awards.
“While I appreciate the sentiments expressed by a section of the social media in terms of an award, I would humbly like to request that such campaigns be discontinued," he wrote in a social media post.
He further said he considers himself fortunate to be an Indian and to try and contribute to India’s growth and prosperity.
