On January 30, the nation solemnly remembers and pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation who was assassinated on this day in 1948. It is a day to reflect on his principles of non-violence, truth, and peace and how they continue to inspire millions worldwide. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu and other Ministers paid floral tribute at Rajghat, Gandhi's final resting place. The occasion serves as a reminder to uphold his ideals of peace, unity, and tolerance in the face of modern challenges.
Mahatma Gandhi: The Father of the Nation
Mahatma Gandhi, also known as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, was a preeminent figure in Indian independence movement and a revered spiritual and political leader known for his philosophy of non-violent civil disobedience.
Background
Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, India. After studying law in England, he returned to India in 1893 and settled in South Africa, where he led a campaign against the oppressive conditions faced by Indians under the apartheid regime. In 1915, Gandhi returned to India and spearheaded the Indian National Congress in its struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence and civil disobedience became synonymous with the Indian independence movement. He led a series of non-violent protests, including the Salt Satyagraha in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942. Gandhi's unwavering belief in the power of non-violence earned him the title "Mahatma," meaning "Great Soul."
Assassination
On January 30, 1948, Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist who opposed Gandhi's efforts to reconcile with Muslims. Gandhi's assassination shocked the nation and the world, and he is remembered as a martyr who sacrificed his life for the cause of peace and freedom.
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Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched the Aam Aadmi Party's 'Budget' Patra campaign, emphasizing the savings of up to ₹35,000 per month for Delhi families under AAP's governance. Kejriwal warned that if the BJP came to power, they would discontinue all the welfare schemes implemented by AAP, such as free electricity, water, education, and bus travel. He also unveiled new initiatives, including benefits for women, students, and senior citizens, expected to further add ₹8,000-₹10,000 in monthly savings. AAP workers will visit households to fill out the 'Bachat Patra' and inform residents about the financial benefits provided by the party.
The Budget Session of Parliament started off with a controversy as Congress leader Sonia Gandhi made remarks about President Droupadi Murmu's address. The BJP demanded an apology, stating that the President was a tribal woman who should not be underestimated. However, Congress has defended Gandhi's statement, stating that she meant no disrespect and was only expressing empathy for the President's health. This incident has fueled tensions between the two political parties, further highlighting their ideological differences.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has strongly criticised Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for their recent comments towards India's first tribal woman President Droupadi Murmu. Referring to Sonia's remarks as "reprehensible" and Rahul's comment as "offensive," Majhi denounced their words as an insult to President Murmu and a direct attack on the tribal and marginalized communities she represents. He has called for a formal apology from the Congress leadership and has been joined by many political figures across the country in support of President Murmu.
President Murmu, in her joint address to Parliament, highlighted the government's initiatives for the tribal community, including the 'Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan'. She also reiterated the government's commitment to the middle class and reflected on the nation's constitutional journey, commemorating the recent 75-year milestones.
In a historic event, three Shankaracharyas from prominent Hindu Peeths released a 27-point 'Dharmadesh' at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. The directive highlights the importance of protecting the cow as the "Mother of the Nation" and calls for the recognition of religious education as a fundamental right of Hindus. The Shankaracharyas also extended their blessings to the UP government for successfully organising the grand event, which is expected to witness a footfall of around 40 crore pilgrims.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praises Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 10-year tenure, saying it marks the end of one era and the beginning of a new one. He predicts that India will become the world's 3rd largest economy by 2027, up from the previous 11th spot. Shah also shares data on the government's efforts to improve the lives of the public, including providing housing, sanitation, and healthcare. He highlights Modi's focus on cleanliness and the successful electrification of 2500 villages.
US President Donald Trump declared a national tragedy after a commercial American Eagle plane crashed into an Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River, resulting in multiple fatalities. The rescue efforts have now shifted to a recovery mission, with 27 bodies recovered so far and more expected to be found. While the cause of the crash is still unclear, Trump used the opportunity to criticize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and blamed previous administrations for their diversity hiring policies.
The Election Commission of India has demanded that former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal provide factual evidence for his allegation that Yamuna water has been poisoned. The Commission has given a deadline for Kejriwal to submit the evidence, and warned that if he fails to do so, appropriate action will be taken. Kejriwal has accused the Commission of being biased and has refused to comply with their demands.
As India celebrated the coming of its Constitution on 26 January 1950, there were polarizing sentiments among its citizens. While Nehru and Ambedkar led the country towards progress and democratic values, Hindu Nationalists were critical of the Constitution, citing its lack of connection to "Indian values". However, political events such as the Shah Bano case and the implementation of the Mandal Commission report gave way for Hindu nationalists to push their agenda, resulting in communal violence and discrimination against religious minorities, particularly Muslims. This has led to the spread of fear and the formation of Muslim ghettos in various cities across India.
A Pakistani court has dismissed a petition by Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation seeking to rename Shadman Chowk Lahore after the freedom fighter and place his statue there. The court upheld the decision of the local corporation, which cited a retired military officer's claim that Singh was a "criminal" and not a revolutionary. The foundation plans to challenge the decision in the Supreme Court.