Khandu hails Mookerjee as visionary nation-builder, dedicates road in his honour

Itanagar, Jul 6 (PTI) Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday described Syama Prasad Mookerjee as one of the few leaders who not only fought for India's freedom but also envisioned the nation's future after Independence. Marking Mookerjee's 125th birth anniversary, Khandu said the true tribute to great leaders lies in carrying forward their ideals, even as he inaugurated a 4 km concrete road in Itanagar named after the Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder. Sharing his thoughts in a post on X after attending the 125th Smaran Paksha programme at the state BJP office, Khandu said, "Many fought for India's freedom. But only a few had the vision to shape the India that would emerge after Independence. Syama Prasad Mookerjee was one of those extraordinary nation-builders." The chief minister said he was proud to participate in the commemorative programme organised to mark the 125th birth anniversary of the veteran nationalist leader. Emphasising that a nation's respect for its icons must extend beyond ceremonial observances, Khandu said, a nation truly honours its great leaders not merely through words, but by carrying their vision into the future. As part of the celebrations, the chief minister dedicated the newly constructed Syama Prasad Mookerjee Road, a 4-km concrete stretch connecting Damsite Bridge to Kankar Nallah in Ward No 16 at Lampya in the state capital. Describing the project as a fitting tribute, he said the road honours a proud Son of India, a great patriot of Bharat, whose vision of "One Nation, One Constitution" continues to inspire generations. The chief minister also appreciated the Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) and the Public Works Department (PWD) for completing the infrastructure project efficiently. "Great job by the Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) and the PWD for getting this infrastructure built fast and built right," he added. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein also paid tribute to Mookerjee on the occasion, describing him as one of the architects of modern India whose ideals continue to guide the nation. In a social media message, Mein said Mookerjee's unwavering commitment to national unity, integrity and selfless service remains a source of inspiration. "His stand for national integration, his advocacy for cultural nationalism and his enduring belief in 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat' continue to inspire all of us," the deputy chief minister said. He added that Mookerjee's principles of selfless service, patriotism and nation-first governance remain as relevant today as ever, and called upon people to reaffirm their commitment to building a stronger, more united, self-reliant and developed Bharat while carrying forward his enduring legacy. PTI UPL UPL RG