Ekta Nagar, Gujarat: On the occasion of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 150th birth anniversary, Home Minister Amit Shah launched a strong critique against the Indian National Congress, asserting that the party had deliberately diminished Patel's legacy and failed to recognize his immense contribution to the nation. Shah stated that the Modi government has been instrumental in restoring Patel's rightful place in Indian history.
Addressing a press conference in Patna, Bihar, Shah said that the Congress "left no stone unturned to erase Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's legacy" and ignored his crucial role in uniting the country after independence. He contrasted this with the Modi administration's efforts, most notably the construction of the 182-meter 'Statue of Unity' at Ekta Nagar, which stands as a global tribute to India's unifier.
Shah highlighted the historical neglect, pointing out that it took 41 years after Patel's death for the Congress government to award him the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with giving Patel the respect he deserved through the Statue of Unity. The statue, built using 25,000 tonnes of iron contributed by farmers across India, was completed in just 57 months and has become an international attraction.
Shah described Sardar Patel as "not just an individual, but an ideology" who united India both geographically and emotionally. He recalled Patel's extraordinary leadership in integrating 562 princely states, creating the political map of modern India through vision, diplomacy, and determination. He also recounted Patel's role in securing Lakshadweep, ensuring it became an integral part of India.
To further honor Patel's legacy, Shah announced that the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas parade will be organized every year on October 31, with the Prime Minister taking the salute at a grand parade in Ekta Nagar. This parade will be similar in stature to the Republic Day celebrations and will feature contingents of state police and central paramilitary forces, tableaux from different states, and a flypast by the Indian Air Force's Suryakiran team.
In addition to the parade, a nationwide 'Run for Unity' and a 'Unity Pledge' will be organized across schools, universities, district police stations, and all states and Union Territories. A 15-day "Bharat Parv" will also be held at Ekta Nagar from November 1 to 15, showcasing India's diverse tribal traditions, food, crafts, and folk art.
Shah emphasized that these initiatives aim to inspire young Indians with Sardar Patel's values of unity and national integrity. He said that the Modi government is committed to fulfilling Patel's vision of a united and strong India.
Furthermore, Shah recalled that it was Mahatma Gandhi who bestowed the title of 'Sardar' upon Vallabhbhai Patel during the Bardoli Satyagraha of 1928, lauding Patel's efforts in integrating numerous princely states into a united India.
The Home Minister concluded by stating that the annual parade and associated events will serve as a medium to inspire young Indians and strengthen the message of "Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat," ensuring that Sardar Patel's vision of unity continues to guide the nation.
