Monday, Jul 07, 2025 10:30 [IST]
Last Update: Sunday, Jul 06, 2025 17:33 [IST]
GANGTOK, (IPR): The State-level celebration of the 125th birth anniversary of Dr
Syama Prasad Mookerjee took place at ChintanBhawan today. Chief Minister Prem
Singh Tamang-Golay attended the programme as the chief guest.
The
event began with the rendition of the National Anthem, followed by the lighting
of the ceremonial lamp and the offering of khada
on the portrait of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee.
In
his address, the Chief Minister spoke about the role of Dr Mookerjee in shaping
the nation’s political and cultural direction. He stated that Dr Mookerjee
followed the ideals and path of his father, AshutoshMookerjee, who was a
respected judge and educationist.
He
added that Dr Mookerjee completed his law degree from the University of
Calcutta and later went to England, where he qualified as a barrister from
Lincoln’s Inn. He said that Dr Mookerjee became the youngest Vice-Chancellor of
Calcutta University at the age of 33, where he promoted learning and national
values.
The
Chief Minister said that Dr Mookerjee worked for self-reliance, the promotion
of Indian knowledge systems, and the development of local industries. He
described Dr Mookerjee as a man of wisdom who stood for self-reliance, took
pride in India’s cultural roots, and believed in strengthening local
industries. He stated that Dr Mookerjee’s work reflected his commitment to the
country’s independence in thought, economy, and identity.
He
urged everyone to follow Dr Mookerjee’s principles and work for the welfare of
the nation. He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for promoting the
vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’.
The
Chief Minister extended warm birthday wishes to His Holiness the 14th Dalai
Lama on behalf of the people of Sikkim. He conveyed greetings and prayers for
the continued health and long life of His Holiness and expressed gratitude for
his message of peace, compassion, and harmony.
Former
head of Department of History and Presiding Officer of the Internal Complaint
Committee, Sikkim University, Dr Veenu Pant, delivered a talk on the life and
contributions of Dr SyamaMookerjee. She said he was committed to education and
public service.
She
mentioned that Dr Mookerjee began his political career with the Indian National
Congress and later joined the Hindu Mahasabha. After Independence, he served as
the Minister for Industry and Supply.
Dr
VeenuPanth said he resigned from the Cabinet due to differences over the
government's policy on Jammu and Kashmir. In 1951, he founded the Bharatiya
Jana Sangh. She stated that he opposed Article 370 and travelled to Jammu and
Kashmir in protest. He was arrested and later passed away in custody in 1953.
She said people remember him as a principled leader who stood for national
unity.
The
event also featured a patriotic song performance by the Culture department.
During
the programme, the Chief Minister also inaugurated a newly constructed Home department
drivers’ waiting room within the premises of ChintanBhawan. The facility aims
to provide a designated resting space for drivers accompanying dignitaries,
officials, and guests attending events at the venue.
The
Chief Minister stated that the initiative reflects the government’s effort to
ensure basic amenities and convenience for all working individuals, including
drivers.
Also
present were the Deputy Speaker Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Raj KumariThapa, cabinet
ministers, MLAs-cum-advisors, MP LokSabhaIndra Hang Subba, advisors to Chief
Minister, political advisors to Chief Minister, ZillaAdhyaksha and
Up-Adhyakshyas of Gangtok district, Deputy Mayor GMC, councillors, chief secretary,
ACS, heads of departments, senior government officials, and representatives
from NGOs and other organisations.
Earlier,
additional director Culture department LN Nepal delivered the welcome address,
while the word of thanks was proposed by OSD, Culture department
BhawaniGhimirey.
