Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave long-overdue and genuine recognition to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
He stated that previous governments failed to honour the legendary freedom fighter despite his immense contribution to India’s independence.
Addressing a public gathering on the 129th birth anniversary of Netaji, CM Saha said decades of neglect ended under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.
He described the recognition as historic and corrective in nature. He stressed that Netaji’s role in the freedom struggle had remained underappreciated for years.
The Chief Minister highlighted that in 2022, Prime Minister Modi installed a 28-foot-tall statue of Netaji at India Gate in New Delhi.
He noted that the same year, the Prime Minister declared Netaji’s birth anniversary as ‘Parakram Diwas’. Saha said these steps reflected true respect for Netaji’s legacy and sacrifice.
Legacy Finally Acknowledged
Speaking at Netaji Subhas Vidyaniketan, the Chief Minister described Netaji as a visionary whose ideas remain relevant in modern India.
He said Netaji’s thoughts on nationalism, courage, and discipline continue to inspire generations. He urged young people to learn from Netaji’s life and selfless service to the nation.
CM Saha recalled Netaji’s ideological differences with Mahatma Gandhi. He said Bose left the Indian National Congress to form the Forward Bloc.
He added that Netaji sought to intensify the freedom movement against British rule. Saha noted that Netaji demanded Purna Swaraj from the outset, a demand later adopted by the Congress at its Lahore session.
As part of the commemorations, students of the 78-year-old Netaji Subhas Vidyaniketan organised a grand and colourful procession. The rally followed a tradition that has continued since 1951.
The procession demonstrated a strong sense of patriotism and social awareness. Creative tableaux highlighted themes such as national unity, cultural diversity, Hindu-Muslim harmony, water conservation, the prevention of child marriage, the empowerment of girls, the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative, and the rights of children with disabilities.
Hundreds of students participated in the march across the capital city. Several dignitaries offered floral tributes to Netaji.
They encouraged students to follow his ideals of courage, discipline, and dedication to the nation.