Indian politicians from various parties praised NASA astronaut Sunita Williams on her safe return to Earth, commending her achievements and calling her an inspiration for the nation.
Williams, along with astronauts Butch Wilmore, Nick Hague, and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, landed safely on Tuesday evening aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft. The capsule splashed down off Florida’s coast just before 6 p.m. local time, where recovery teams welcomed the astronauts. Williams, the third to emerge from the spacecraft, waved and smiled, marking the conclusion of her extended space mission.
Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty expressed her happiness over Williams’ return. “I always hoped for the best and prayed for her. I am very happy she has returned safely,” she said.
BJP MP Ravi Kishan referred to Williams as “India’s daughter” and emphasized the growing recognition of Indian women’s excellence. “This moment showcases the immense strength and potential of daughters. Indian women are setting remarkable examples on the global stage. The world celebrates her return, proving that even in space, their power is extraordinary,” he told IANS.
Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora described her return as a “great victory for humanity” and highlighted the importance of innovation. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited Sunita Williams to India, and I am confident that we will honour her in the coming months,” he said.
Congress MP Karti P. Chidambaram hailed her safe return as proof of human ingenuity. “I am very glad that space exploration is being carried out with such great vigour, and even happier that all the astronauts have returned safely,” he told IANS.
BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi likened Williams and her team to “stars returning to Earth,” adding, “She has brought immense pride to the entire world. Indians, in particular, feel honoured.”
BJP Rajya Sabha MP Rekha Sharma praised Williams for making history. “She spent nine months in space, becoming the first person to do so—not just as a woman, but as an individual. I hope she visits India soon and receives a warm welcome,” she said.
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak congratulated Williams on behalf of the state’s 25 crore people. “The world has witnessed the charisma of India’s daughter. My heart is filled with joy,” he said.
BJP Rajya Sabha MP Mayank Nayak also emphasized her deep connection to India and Gujarat. “She is the daughter of Gujarat, the daughter of India. She ventured into space and has now returned safely. I thank God for her safe journey back to Earth,” he said.