Martyrs' Day 2026: UP CM Yogi Adityanath, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on 78th death anniversary
New Delhi, January 30
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on Martyrs' Day, remembering the Father of the Nation for his ideals of truth, non-violence and compassion on his 78th death anniversary.
Taking to X, Yogi Adityanath said Gandhi's life and values continue to guide humanity. "On the death anniversary of the 'Father of the Nation', Mahatma Gandhi ji, a hundred salutes to him. The revered 'Bapu's' steadfast conduct in truth, his unwavering practice of non-violence, and his unparalleled compassion towards humanity will continue to illuminate the entire world forever. Come, let us imbibe the ideals of 'Bapu' and make our best contribution to the building of a prosperous, just and developed India," he said.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also paid homage, saying Gandhi's thoughts remain a guiding force. "On the death anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, I bow to him with deep respect. Bapu's ideals and his thoughts will always continue to guide us and will keep inspiring the new generation," he posted on X.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Traffic Police also issued a traffic advisory in view of an official function scheduled at Mahatma Gandhi Smriti Sthal, Rajghat, on January 30 to mark Martyrs' Day. The event is expected to be attended by several dignitaries, prompting heightened security arrangements and traffic regulation in parts of central Delhi. According to the advisory, traffic diversions may be implemented on a need basis at key intersections, including ITO Chowk, Delhi Gate, Guru Nanak Chowk, Shantivan Chowk, Rajghat DTC Depot, and the IP Flyover.
The police said these measures are aimed at ensuring the smooth conduct of the function and maintaining public safety. Traffic restrictions, regulation and diversions may be enforced between 9 am and 12 noon on several arterial roads and surrounding stretches. These include the stretch from ITO Chowk to Delhi Gate on BSZ Marg; Shanti Van Chowk to IP Flyover; Asaf Ali Road from Delhi Gate to NS Marg; Shanti Van Chowk to Nishad Raj Marg; Guru Nanak Chowk to Ranjeet Singh Flyover; and Rajghat DTC Depot to Ring Road Bye Pass.
The police have advised commuters to plan their journeys accordingly and, wherever possible, use public transport to reduce congestion. Motorists have also been urged to park only in designated areas and to avoid roadside parking, which can disrupt traffic flow. In case of any suspicious object or person, citizens have been asked to immediately inform the police by dialling 112.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Respect to Mahatma Gandhi ji. But honestly, the traffic diversions in Delhi are a nightmare every year on this day. I got stuck for an hour near ITO. Can't the arrangements be more efficient? The ideals are great, but the execution causes so much public inconvenience.
Gandhiji's philosophy of compassion is what our society desperately needs. Seeing CM Yogi and CM Nitish Kumar, who have very different political ideologies, both honoring him is a powerful symbol of unity. May his teachings guide our nation's future.
As someone living in Delhi, the traffic advisory is very helpful. It's a small sacrifice for a day to remember such a monumental figure. His lessons on non-violence and simple living should be part of school curriculums year-round.
Salute to the Mahatma. His vision for a prosperous and just India is still a work in progress. Leaders paying tribute is good, but the real tribute would be implementing policies that reflect his values for the poor and marginalized. Jai Hind.
Remembering Bapu on his Punya Tithi. It's a day for quiet reflection for me and my family. We read from his books. The political statements are fine, but the true spirit of the day is in personal introspection about how we can be better citizens.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.