Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann paid heartfelt floral tributes to the legendary freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai on his 161st birth anniversary at his birthplace in Dhudike, Moga district, on Wednesday. In a significant announcement, the CM declared his government's commitment to transform Dhudike into a fully developed model village, with a time-bound plan to deliver essential infrastructure including modern sewerage systems, revitalized ponds, upgraded playgrounds, and other basic amenities.
Punjab CM Vows Visible Development Within One Year
Addressing the gathering, Bhagwant Mann criticized previous administrations for merely drafting plans without ensuring tangible results on the ground. He emphasized that his government would break this pattern by guaranteeing visible progress and completion of the announced projects within a strict one-year timeframe. The CM pledged to return for Lala Lajpat Rai's next birth anniversary with all the development works successfully implemented, demonstrating his administration's dedication to timely execution.
Tribute to Punjab Kesari Lala Lajpat Rai
Lala Lajpat Rai, revered as 'Punjab Kesari' or the Lion of Punjab, was a towering figure in India's freedom struggle. He sustained severe injuries while leading protests against the Simon Commission in 1928 and tragically succumbed to those injuries on November 17 of that year. His legacy as a fierce nationalist continues to inspire generations of youth across the nation, symbolizing courage and unwavering commitment to the country's independence.
CM Participates in Rural Sports Festival
Following the tribute ceremony, Chief Minister Mann actively engaged with the local community by joining a vibrant rural sports festival organized in Dhudike. The event featured traditional Punjabi sports such as kabaddi and hockey, highlighting the region's rich cultural heritage and promoting grassroots athleticism. Mann expressed that such initiatives align with Lala Lajpat Rai's enduring spirit of fostering community unity and national pride.
Political Leaders Accompany CM
The Chief Minister was accompanied by a delegation of prominent political figures, including Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, and MLAs Manjit Singh Bilaspur, Devinder Singh Laddi Dhos, Amritpal Singh Sukhanand, and Amandeep Kaur. Their presence underscored the collective support for the development initiatives and the homage paid to the freedom fighter.
Historical Context of Dhudike Visits
This event marks a notable moment in Dhudike's history, recalling that on January 28, 2015, during Lala Lajpat Rai's 150th birth anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had planned to visit the village. However, that visit was unexpectedly canceled at the last minute due to unavoidable circumstances, making Chief Minister Mann's current announcement and presence particularly significant for the local community.