PM Modi advancing self-reliance envisioned by Syama Prasad Mookerjee: BJP MP Manoj Tiwari
New Delhi, July 6
BJP MP Manoj Tiwari on Monday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is carrying forward the principle of self-reliance envisioned by Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee as the country marked his 125th birth anniversary.
Speaking to ANI, Tiwari recalled Dr Mookerjee's contribution to India's industrial policy and said his vision continues to guide the country's development.
"Today marks the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, and his presence remains with us... The industrial policy he presented to the nation in 1948 was grounded in the principle of self-reliance... Today, PM Narendra Modi is dedicated to advancing the nation and every citizen based on that very principle," Tiwari said.
Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta also paid tribute to Dr Mookerjee and said his vision for national unity had been realised. "... Dr Mookerjee sacrificed all for the integrity of this nation. The vision he articulated nearly 75 years ago has now been realised. Article 370 has been completely abolished, and the people of Kashmir have been granted the opportunity to witness a new dawn..." Gupta said.
BJP leaders in Delhi also paid floral tributes to the portrait of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on the occasion of his birth anniversary.
Delhi BJP president Harsh Malhotra and other senior party leaders took part in the commemorative event.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary, describing him as one of India's "most remarkable nation-builders" whose commitment to national unity, education and industrial development continues to inspire the country's journey towards a developed India.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, "Today, on the 125th Jayanti of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, I bow to one of India's most remarkable nation-builders, whose life was defined by scholarship, courage and an unwavering commitment to national service. He dedicated himself to the cause of India's unity, dignity and progress. Dr Mookerjee's contributions spanned diverse spheres. He was an outstanding thinker and educationist, who supported innovation and futuristic learning. As Industries Minister, he laid the foundations of industrial self-reliance while ensuring that traditional sectors and livelihoods flourished. His humanitarian efforts during the Bengal Famine reflected his profound compassion for those in distress. Above all, his steadfast commitment to the unity and integrity of India remains an enduring source of inspiration. As we move forward in our journey towards a Viksit Bharat, his vision continues to illuminate our path."
In Jaipur, Rajasthan, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma paid floral tributes to Dr Mookerjee's portrait at the Chief Minister's residence.
A day earlier, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini paid floral tributes to Dr Mookerjee at 'Ekta Sthal' in Madhopur ahead of his birth anniversary.
Addressing a programme, Saini highlighted Dr Mookerjee's role in strengthening national integration, particularly his views on Jammu and Kashmir.
"Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee said that there cannot be two supreme leaders, two legislatures, and two constitutions in the country. This was not merely a slogan but the very foundation of the nation's system. He rejected power and position, placing the nation above all," Saini said.
Speaking to reporters, the Haryana Chief Minister added, "He was a great personality who envisioned an undivided India. Today marks the 125th birth anniversary of such a great personality, and we are all remembering him and his sacrifices for the unity and integrity of the country."
Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh on October 21, 1951, the ideological predecessor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Born on July 6, 1901, in Calcutta, he was an educationist, parliamentarian, statesman and humanitarian. He inherited a legacy of scholarship and nationalism from his father, Sir Ashutosh Mookerjee, who served as the Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University and as a judge of the Calcutta High Court.
In 1940, Dr Mookerjee became the acting president of the Hindu Mahasabha and declared complete independence for India as its political goal. He later served as Minister for Industry and Supply in Jawaharlal Nehru's Interim Government before resigning. He also left the Hindu Mahasabha in the year Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated.
The BJP observes Dr Mookerjee's death anniversary on June 23 as 'Balidan Diwas' to commemorate his death in Kashmir in 1953.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's interesting to see how historical figures are being invoked in contemporary politics. Mookerjee's opposition to Nehru's policies and his emphasis on national unity resonate even today. But the real question is whether current policies truly reflect his vision or just use his name for political mileage.
As an Indian, I appreciate the focus on self-reliance. But we must remember that Mookerjee's industrial policy also emphasized traditional sectors and livelihoods. Our current economic model should not just be about big industries but also support small artisans and farmers. That's true self-reliance!
The abolition of Article 370 is highlighted as fulfilling Mookerjee's vision. But constitutional changes aside, the real progress in Kashmir will be measured by the well-being of its people - jobs, education, and peace. Let's hope the government's actions match the rhetoric.
Whatever your political leanings, you can't deny Mookerjee's contribution to our nation-building. He resigned from Nehru's cabinet on principle - that takes courage. Today's leaders could learn a thing or two about putting nation above personal power. 🙏
I find it ironic that Mookerjee was part of the Hindu Mahasabha but also worked with Nehru. India's political history is so complex! The BJP claiming his legacy while criticizing Nehru shows how selective political memory can be. Still, his commitment to national unity is commendable.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.