Mysuru: Amid the row with the opposition Congress party that has been questioning promotion of Veer Savarkar by the ruling BJP, former chief minister and BJP veteran B.S. Yediyurappa on Tuesday August 23 launched the Veer Savarkar Rath Yatra here to carry out awareness among public on his contributions and sacrifices.
Yediyurappa, who visited the historical town of Mysuru for the first time after being nominated to the party’s highest decision making bodies, launched the Yatra from Kote Anjaneya Temple in the premises of the Mysuru Palace.
The rath yatra is being organised by the Savarkar Foundation.
“It is wrong to portray that Veer Savarkar was not a freedom fighter. Only those who do not have an idea of religion and nation can make such irresponsible statements. The statements on Veer Savarkar by Opposition leader Siddaramaiah does not suit his dignity,” Yediyurappa said.
“If he continues to issue statements like this, the people of the state will teach him a lesson. We will propagate (among people) the patriotism of Veer Savarkar. It is going to be a quiet one… we will not gather huge groups,” he stated.
He said “Indira Gandhi had once described Savarkar as a ‘Remarkable Son’ and had given him the credit
of a freedom fighter. Congress leaders themselves had turned up for the funeral procession of Savarkar in Mumbai. He was one of the proud son of the soil, who for the cause of the country even sacrificed his barrister degree. A votary of Swadeshi, he instilled fears in the mind of Britishers, for which he was even incarcerated and lodged in Andaman jail. Now, just for the cause of petty politics, Congress leaders aren’t ready to give Savarkar his due as a freedom fighter. Those who are denouncing Savarkar should read the vachana of 12th century social reformer Basavanna, said Yediyurappa reminding the gathering about what Socialist Leader Rammanohar Lohia had once spoken about Savarkar in awe.”
BSY said, “Mysuru has a significant place in the history of freedom movement. It’s my good fortune that I am flagging off the rath yatra in such a place. Let the message of patriotism spread all over. On one hand, the country is making all efforts to evolve as a ‘Vishwa Guru’, while on the other hand, vested interests are indulge in derailing the efforts. Amid this negative publicity is being made against Savarkar, which is nothing but a serious offence.”
The Rath Yatra will pass in Mysuru, Mandya and Chamarajanagar districts till August 30.
During the Rath Yatra the values and principles of Veer Savarkar will be propagated.
The confusion created by the opposition party and a section of society on his role in the freedom movement and fight against the British, stated Rajath, a convenor of the foundation.
Inputs By CI
