Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar Pays Tribute to Dr Shyama Prasad Mookerjee in Hyderabad

Union Minister of State for Home Bandi Sanjay Kumar paid floral tributes to Jan Sangh founder Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee on his birth anniversary in Hyderabad. Speaking at the commemorative event, the minister emphasized that patriotism is more than a mere slogan, pointing to the life and sacrifice of Dr. Mookerjee as a prime example of dedication to the nation.

During his address, Sanjay described Dr. Mookerjee's death as a major sacrifice for the cause of national unity. He stated that the Narendra Modi government is actively carrying forward Dr. Mookerjee’s vision for the country. According to the minister, this vision is being realized through decisive actions, such as the abrogation of Article 370 and the continuous strengthening of India's defence preparedness.

Sanjay also highlighted various key initiatives launched by the central government, such as "Make in India" and "Start-up India." He framed these programs as direct efforts to advance national self-reliance, which was a core part of Dr. Mookerjee's philosophy. "Many have spoken for the country, very few have given their lives for it. Dr Shyama Prasad Mookerjee’s name will remain immortal among them," Sanjay said during his tribute.

In his speech, Sanjay recounted Dr. Mookerjee’s historic campaign against the travel permit system that was once required to enter Kashmir. He recalled how Dr. Mookerjee questioned why any citizen of India should require official permission to visit their own country, a stance that led him to spearhead the fight against Article 370.

Sanjay further stated that Dr. Mookerjee was unlawfully detained and kept in poor conditions following his return from Kashmir. He noted that the Jan Sangh founder later died under suspicious circumstances, and pointed out that no proper investigation was conducted into the death at the time. The minister concluded by noting that the subsequent withdrawal of the travel permit requirement for Kashmir was an achievement later associated with the BJP.