National Conference Provincial President Devender Singh Rana on Monday paid glowing tributes to the Father of Nation, saying people should take a pledge to realize the dream of Mahatma Gandhi by making this nation a better place to live in. “Gandhiji believed in non-violence, relevance of which is more than ever before in the present day world in general and in our country in particular, which is braving many challenges”, Mr Rana said after paying floral tributes to the Mahatma at a function here this morning, adding that there is immense need to understand and implement Gandhian philosophy of truth and non-violence.The Provincial President said Mahatma Gandhi was a strong believer of communal amity and worked all his life in strengthening it. “The best tribute to him therefore would be to sustain this spirit”, he said, adding that Jammu and Kashmir is known for preserving the glorious traditions of secularism. In this context, he referred to the great role of Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah in promoting pluralistic ethos of inclusiveness during most testing times of the history.
Rana referred to the peace and tranquility maintained during the horrendous days of partition when the entire sub-continent was engulfed by communal frenzy but Jammu and Kashmir stood tall in maintaining the brotherhood. This had inspired Father of the Nation greatly which prompted him say that a ray of hope was emanating from Jammu and Kashmir. Dwelling upon various facets of the life of Mahatma Gandhi, Mr Rana said he was embodiment of peace and sacrifice. He said that such Yugpurush take birth in several centuries and India is blessed to have been abode of the Mahatma. He quoted Albert Einstein having said about Mahatma Gandhi, Generation to come will scarcely believe that such a man as this ever in flesh and blood walked upon this Earth”. The Provincial President exhorted the people to carry forward the great mission of Mahatma Gandhi and fight against all such forces which were posing threat to the communal fabric of the country and the State. “Let us vow to preserve our time tested amity and brotherhood”, he added.
Devender Singh Rana