NEW DELHI, Aug 14: The Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday declared August 14 to be observed as ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day’ to acknowledge the pain undergone by Indians due to the partition of the country into India and Pakistan at the time of independence in 1947.
Taking to micro-blogging site Twitter, he tweeted, “Partition’s pains can never be forgotten. Millions of our sisters and brothers were displaced and many lost their lives due to mindless hate and violence. In memory of the struggles and sacrifices of our people, 14th August will be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day”.
He further said, “May the Partition Horrors Remembrance Day keep reminding us of the need to remove the poison of social divisions, disharmony and further strengthen the spirit of oneness, social harmony and human empowerment.”
As soon as Modi made the announcement, BJP general secretary (organisation) tweeted that it was a laudable attempt to remember the tragedy sought to be whitewashed by proponents of “Nehruvian legacy.”
“More than 2 Cr people lost their life. Country lost a significant portion of its territory. Nehruvian legacy & its proponents tried to whitewash the tragedy fearing accountability. Country will always remember the tragedy & millions of sacrifices. #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay,” the party secretary tweeted.
While no details were shared on any memorial events to be held on the day, the announcement comes on the eve of India’s 75th Independence anniversary. A year-long series of events connected to the anniversary, ‘Amrit Mahotsav,’ has been lined up, including recording the national anthem by ordinary citizens and uploading them on the Rashtrapati Bhavan website.
India will be celebrating the 75th year of Independence on Sunday. The day is recognised as that of national pride and honour, with the Prime Minister hoisting the flag and addressing the country from the ramparts of the Red Fort every year.
(Manas Dasgupta)
