Cong headquarters in Jammu to be named Rajiv Bhawan

The Jammu and Kashmir Congress has decided to name its renovated headquarters in Jammu as ‘Rajiv Bhawan’ in memory of former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, ahead of his death anniversary on May 21.

JKPCC president Tariq Hameed Karra said the decision was taken as a tribute to his contributions to the nation.

According to party leaders, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi has also welcomed the move.

A function will be organised at the party headquarters in Jammu on May 19 to formally inaugurate Rajiv Bhawan, Congress leaders said.

The event will be led by Karra and attended by senior Congress leaders, former ministers, legislators, district presidents and representatives of frontal wings of the party.

JKPCC chief spokesperson Ravinder Sharma said that the move would be a befitting tribute to Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated in 1991.

The Congress leaders highlighted Rajiv Gandhi’s role in promoting science, information technology and computer education in the country, saying his policies helped prepare the Indian youth for the 21st century challenges and contributing to India’s emergence as a global IT leader.

They also referred to his role in lowering the voting age from 21 to 18 years and strengthening the Panchayati Raj system through the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, which provided reservations for women and weaker sections in local governance institutions.