Gangtok, July 6 (IPR): The state-level celebration of the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee took place at Chintan Bhawan, today.
The Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, 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, Ashutosh Mookerjee, 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 the Prime Minister, Mr 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 Syama Mookerjee. 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 Veenu Panth 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, Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang also inaugurated a newly constructed Home Department drivers’ waiting room within the premises of Chintan Bhawan. 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, Ms Raj Kumari Thapa, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs-cum-Advisors, MP Lok Sabha Dr Indra Hang Subba, Advisors to Chief Minister, Political Advisors to Chief Minister, Zilla Adhyaksha 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 Mr LN Nepal delivered the welcome address, while the word of thanks was proposed by OSD, Culture Department Mr Bhawani Ghimirey.
Report from DIO-GANGTOK
