Mahatma Gandhi’s statue stands neglected in city on his death anniv

On Thursday, on the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, his statue installed near the MC’s office, Mata Rani Chowk, was found lying in a shambles.

Generally, every year some NGOs or political parties visit the spot to pay homage to the freedom fighter and political leader. As a result, the place is cleaned. But on Thursday, the statue remained inconspicuous to people as none visited the spot. It remained in a poor state throughout the day. A few beggars were seen sitting and sleeping around the statue, carrying out their chores as usual.

Meanwhile, the day was observed at an event held at Circuit House here under the patronage of Desh Bhagat Yadgari Society, Punjab. Former Chief Minister Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, daughter of freedom fighter Baba Hira Singh Bhattal, was the chief guest.

Bhattal said the Congress was a party that upholds thoughts of father of nation Mahatma Gandhi.

“We need to build the India dreamt by great patriots while safeguarding their thinking. Gandhi had said in the bouquet of India, Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians are all equal and everyone has the same fragrance. Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar has ensured equal rights to all residents of the country but somewhere we have forgotten our duties,” she said.

She said today there was a need of loyalists who have the lamp of patriotism burning within them.

Krishan Kumar Bawa, president of Desh Bhagat Yadgari Society, Punjab, said the stronger would be the Congress, the stronger the country and the communal harmony will be.