PM Modi pays tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee, says "objective of his life was to protect unity of India"
New Delhi, July 6
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has penned an insightful Op-Ed reflecting on the life, vision, and enduring legacy of Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, on the 125th birth anniversary of the legendary statesman and academician.
The special piece, which provides a deep dive into Dr Mookerjee's contributions to the Indian nation, was shared on Monday by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal.
In an op-ed titled "A life dedicated to the unity and progress of India," the Prime Minister said Dr Mookerjee's contributions to education, industry, humanitarian service and national integration continue to inspire India's journey towards becoming a developed nation.
The Prime Minister described Dr Mookerjee's life as one of "courage and unwavering dedication to Mother India," and praised him as a rare leader who combined scholarship, public service, and strong moral values.
The Prime Minister wrote that despite coming from a wealthy family, Dr Mookerjee chose a life of sacrifice and remained committed to public service despite suffering personal tragedies, including the loss of his young child and later his wife.
However, these personal losses only strengthened his resolve to dedicate his life to national service.
PM Modi then highlighted Dr Mookerjee's role in safeguarding India's unity during Partition and his campaign on Jammu and Kashmir, saying his sacrifice later found recognition through the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35(A).
"The foremost objective of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee's life was to protect the unity and integrity of India. At the time of partition, he played a key role in keeping West Bengal an integral part of India. A few years later, with the same objective, he also fought for the issue of Jammu and Kashmir. Even jail and house arrest couldn't deter him from his path. When he died during detention, he was far removed from the countless people for whom he had fought all his life. There are moments in history when an individual's supreme sacrifice transcends politics and becomes a part of the nation's memory. Dr. Mookerjee's sacrifice was one such example," he wrote.
The Prime Minister also highlighted Dr Mookerjee's contribution to education, recalling his tenure as the youngest Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University and his efforts to modernise higher education.
Quoting Dr Mookerjee, PM Modi wrote, "It is wrong to consider educational institutions merely factories for producing clerks or low-paid employees. We must prepare students to assume leadership roles. They must be prepared to shoulder greater responsibilities in our autonomous institutions, such as municipal corporations, provincial and central legislatures. They must also be able to showcase their talents in areas such as finance, trade, and industry."
The Prime Minister said Dr Mookerjee's vision also shaped independent India's industrial development. He credited him with laying the foundations for projects such as the Damodar Valley Corporation and the Sindri Fertilizer Plant, while also supporting handloom, cottage industries and artisans.
The Prime Minister then described Dr Mookerjee as a firm believer in democratic values. He noted that although Dr Mookerjee joined Jawaharlal Nehru's cabinet in the interest of nation-building, he resigned when he believed the national interest demanded a different course.
PM Modi also referred to Dr Mookerjee's opposition to the first Constitutional Amendment and criticised the Congress for later imposing the Emergency and passing the 42nd Constitutional Amendment.
Highlighting Dr Mookerjee's humanitarian work during the Bengal Famine of 1943 and relief efforts following the 1942 Medinipur cyclone, the Prime Minister said compassion remained central to his public life.
The article concluded with Dr Mookerjee's message to young people: "Whatever you do, do it with complete seriousness, dedication, and honesty. Never leave any task unfinished. Do not consider yourself satisfied until you have given it your best."
Calling upon the youth to carry forward Dr Mookerjee's ideals, PM Modi said the greatest tribute to him would be to build "an India that is strong, united, confident, and sensitive" while working towards the goal of a 'Viksit Bharat'.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's good to remember leaders like Dr. Mookerjee who worked for India's unity during such turbulent times. His work in education and industry development is often overlooked. However, I wish the tribute didn't feel so political—focusing on his contributions to education and humanitarian work would have been more unifying.
Interesting to learn about Dr. Mookerjee's role in the Bengal Famine relief and his vision for education that goes beyond just producing clerks. That quote about preparing students for leadership is very relevant even today. India needs more such holistic thinkers in public life.
Syama Prasad Mookerjee was a great leader, no doubt. But let's not forget he was part of Nehru's cabinet initially and resigned on principle. That shows his commitment to his ideals. The comparison with Emergency and 42nd Amendment is a bit unnecessary though—different contexts. Still, a good article overall.
As someone from outside India, I find this tribute fascinating. It's important for countries to celebrate leaders who worked for national unity and development. The part about his personal sacrifices—losing his child and wife—really humanizes him. Such stories transcend politics.
The article rightly highlights Dr. Mookerjee's role in keeping West Bengal with India during Partition. Amidst today's politics, we should remember that leaders like him worked selflessly for national integration. His message to youth about dedication and honesty is timeless. ❤️
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.