Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur and Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at the historic Ridge Ground in Shimla on his birth anniversary on Thursday, a press release said.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said Mahatma Gandhi showed the world the path of truth and non-violence. Though born into a wealthy family, he was deeply moved by the poverty and suffering around him, which inspired him to join the freedom struggle.
Sukhu added that following Gandhi’s ideals and principles today would be the best way to honour his legacy.
Speaking to reporters, the Governor said Mahatma Gandhi used his struggle and the power of Satyagraha to free India from British rule. He dedicated his entire life to serving society and the nation and will always be remembered for his contributions.
He said, "Mahatma Gandhi ji had driven the British out of this country... He had dedicated his entire life to society and the country... As long as this country exists, we will honour Mahatma Gandhi."
While extending Dussehra greetings, the Governor called on people to join hands in fighting social evils and pledged to work towards a drug-free society.
Born on October 2, 1869, Mahatma Gandhi was an important figure in India’s fight for freedom. Through his principles of Satyagraha and non-violence, he led the Dandi March in 1930, when thousands marched to the sea to defy the salt law, and later the Quit India Movement in 1942 against British rule. This year marks his 156th birth anniversary.
The press release stated that the Governor and Chief Minister also visited the CTO to pay tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary, remembering his significant contributions to the nation’s progress.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister also flagged off two new vehicles for the Shimla Police.
Lady Governor Janaki Shukla, Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, MLA Harish Janartha, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, Shimla Municipal Corporation councillors, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap, and other dignitaries attended the event, the press release added.
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