Shimla, May 21
Leaders in Himachal Pradesh paid tributes to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 35th death anniversary on Wednesday, observing the day as Shaheedi Diwas and Sadbhavana Diwas.
Rajiv Gandhi, who was awarded the Bharat Ratna, the day is observed annually in his memory as Martyrdom Day and also as Sadbhavana Diwas to promote harmony.
The Municipal Corporation of Shimla organized a tribute ceremony at Sadbhavana Chowk in Chhota Shimla, where he was killed in a suicide bombing on May 21, 1991, in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. The statue received floral tributes from Rajiv Gandhi. Senior state minister Colonel Dhani Ram Shandil, Cabinet minister Jagat Singh Negi, MLA Harish Janartha, the Mayor, and other dignitaries participated in the event. They also took a pledge for national unity and integrity.
Speaking on the occasion, Colonel Dhani Ram Shandil said that examples of supreme sacrifice by leaders are seen in the Congress party both before and after independence. He said two Prime Ministers of the country have sacrificed their lives for the nation.
He added that Rajiv Gandhi’s vision of harmony and development will always be remembered, and his ideas continue to inspire future generations. He further said that Rajiv Gandhi’s sacrifice motivates people to stand against terrorism and remain united, which is why a pledge of unity and integrity is taken every year on this occasion.
