Saluting the Architect of Modern India: Rajiv Gandhi’s Balidan Divas Reverberates Nationwide

On the 34th death anniversary of martyr of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, national leaders of all political hues and citizens across the country paid rich tributes on 'Balidan Divas'. The Congress headquarters in Jammu, Srinagar, and other districts had commemorative events wherein floral tributes and silence moments were paid to the sacrifice and achievement of the late leader.

Key Highlights
National and State Observances: Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and other senior members, gathered at ‘Veer Bhumi’ in New Delhi and at party offices in Jammu & Kashmir to pay their respects. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered heartfelt tributes, acknowledging Rajiv Gandhi’s service to the nation.

Visionary Reforms Remembered: Leaders highlighted Rajiv Gandhi’s pivotal role in lowering the voting age from 21 to 18, empowering youth participation in democracy. His introduction of the IT and computer revolution was credited with opening new opportunities for India’s youth and laying the foundation for the country’s technological advancement.

Empowerment Initiatives: The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, which guaranteed 33% reservation to women and proportional representation to SCs and STs in Panchayati Raj Institutions, were brought back to memory as milestone measures for grass-roots democracy and social empowerment.

Personal Tributes: Rahul Gandhi posted an emotional message, promising to complete his father's unfulfilled aspirations, while Congress President Kharge recalled Rajiv Gandhi as a leader who brought India forward to the 21st century with forward-looking policies in education, technology, and peacemaking.

Statewide Participation: Functions and tribute ceremonies were conducted at district and block levels across Jammu, Rajouri, Poonch, Kathua, Samba, Udhampur, Doda, and Kishtwar, reflecting the widespread respect for the late Prime Minister.

Legacy of Sacrifice: Speakers emphasized the sacrifices made by the Gandhi family for the nation, with calls to remember Rajiv Gandhi’s vision for a modern, inclusive, and technologically advanced India.

Source: The Statesman, KNS News, Rising Kashmir, State Times, The Kashmir Monitor