Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered virtual remarks commemorating the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, describing him as a great patriot and visionary dedicated to India's integrity. The government is celebrating Mookerjee's 125th birth anniversary as a two-year national festival running from July 6 last year until July 6 next year, with the West Bengal BJP government organizing grand celebrations.
Modi highlighted Mookerjee's role in founding the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, which evolved into the Bharatiya Janata Party, calling it the world's largest democratic force. He emphasized Mookerjee's crucial role in ensuring West Bengal remained part of India during partition, quoting Mookerjee's statement: "Congress divided the country, but I divided Pakistan itself."
The PM noted Mookerjee's strong opposition to the idea of two constitutions, two prime ministers, and two flags, giving the nation the mantra: "In one country, two constitutions, two prime ministers, and two flags - will not be accepted." Modi stated that the government's removal of Article 370 fulfilled Mookerjee's dream of complete integration.
Modi detailed Mookerjee's institution-building contributions, including becoming the youngest Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University at age 33 and advocating for education through mother tongues to restore Bengal's self-respect. As independent India's first Industry Minister, Mookerjee established several key national institutions including Chittaranjan Locomotive Works for railways, Sindri Fertilizer Plant for agricultural self-reliance, Damodar Valley Corporation for energy and irrigation, and the Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI) for industrial financing.
The PM connected Mookerjee's vision to current policies, noting that the new National Education Policy's emphasis on local languages fulfills Mookerjee's educational vision. Modi concluded by urging the youth to work toward a developed India with dedication and sincerity, quoting Mookerjee's advice to approach every task with utmost seriousness and complete it thoroughly.