77th Republic Day Celebrations Span from Jammu and Kashmir to Kerala
The 77th Republic Day was marked with vibrant celebrations across India on Monday, with states from Jammu and Kashmir to Kerala and Tamil Nadu participating in the national event. Leaders from various regions shared their messages, focusing on themes of unity, diversity, and progress while reflecting on constitutional ideals.
Messages from Union Territories and Governors
In Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed the gathering at the M A Stadium in Jammu, proclaiming that "a new dawn" has arrived in the Union Territory. He emphasized that "decades of suppressed pain and tears are finally receiving dignity and justice," and assured that every terrorism-related case would be thoroughly investigated, with the guilty facing strict punishment.
Sinha highlighted Operation Sindoor as a defining moment in India's national security doctrine, stating it was not merely a military action but a declaration of strategic resolve. "We struck at the heart of the enemy, dismantled their terror infrastructure, exposed the hollowness of nuclear threats, and reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to protecting national sovereignty," he said.
In Manipur, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla called for strengthening peace and upholding the ideals of the Constitution. He urged citizens to resolve to work towards inclusive development and social justice, noting that the state has been under President's Rule since February last year.
Chief Ministers Emphasize Diversity and Federalism
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin took a veiled dig at the BJP government at the Centre, advocating for a "unified India, not a uniform India." He stressed the importance of protecting diversity, saying, "We must remain a country where cultures enrich one another, languages coexist with pride and faith is a personal truth. Our strength has never been sameness. It has always been our many-ness."
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in a Facebook post, called for vigilance against forces attempting to weaken the vision of "unity in diversity" and impose a monolithic ideology. He warned that the federal concept of a strong Centre with empowered states is facing serious challenges and urged standing together against policies that weaken federalism by curtailing states' financial powers.
Development and Political Choices Highlighted
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that the citizens of India are the real guardians of the Constitution. He remarked, "Whenever the basic spirit of the Constitution is disrespected, it is not just an insult to the Constitution but also to those great personalities whose sacrifices ensured the country's freedom."
In Karnataka, Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot reported that disbursals under the five guarantee schemes have exceeded Rs 1.13 lakh crore, bringing significant changes to women's lives and increasing families' purchasing power.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma urged people to make a choice between "vote bank politics" and the development journey initiated by his government over the last five years. He emphasized protecting people's land, foundation, culture, and identity, stating, "We have decided not to surrender to the Bangladeshi Muslims who have encroached upon huge areas of land and threatened our identity, culture and traditions."
Conclusion
The 77th Republic Day celebrations across India showcased a tapestry of messages from leaders, highlighting the nation's commitment to constitutional values, diversity, and progress. From calls for unity to discussions on development and security, the day reflected the multifaceted nature of India's democratic spirit.
