The 96th Sacrifice Day of the great freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai, popularly known as Punjab Kesari, was celebrated today at his birthplace, village Dhudike, with full reverence and respect. The event saw the presence of Finance Minister Mr. Harpal Singh Cheema as the chief guest and MLA Nihal Singh Wala Mr. Manjit Singh Bilaspur as the special guest.
In his address, Finance Minister Mr. Harpal Singh Cheema highlighted the significant contribution of Punjab Kesari Lala Lajpat Rai to the freedom struggle. He emphasized that every Indian is proud of the martyrdom and sacrifices of Lala Lajpat Rai and all the freedom fighters, whose efforts have allowed us to breathe freely in an independent nation.
He noted that Lala Lajpat Rai was not only a great freedom fighter but also a leader of the Swadeshi movement. Responding to the demands of the villagers and the panchayat, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema announced the release of ₹25 lakh for various development works in the village.
These include ₹10 lakh for a gym with four new parks, ₹10 lakh for the Lala Lajpat Rai Birthplace Memorial Committee, and ₹5 lakh for the Desh Bhagat Sports Club. Additionally, the minister accepted the demand for setting up a waste management treatment plant in the village with immediate effect.
Mr. Manjit Singh Bilaspur, MLA Nihal Singh Wala in his remarks, acknowledged the historical significance of village Dhudike, the birthplace of Lala Lajpat Rai and many other freedom fighters. He stated that their contributions to the freedom struggle can never be forgotten and continue to inspire the younger generation to develop a sense of patriotism.
The occasion was also graced by the former Minister Mrs. Malti Thapar, Vice Chairman of Lala Lajpat Rai Janamasthan Yadgar Committee Mr. Ranjit Singh Dhanna, Secretary Rajjung Singh, current and former Sarpanches, students, and other dignitaries. Earlier, Finance Minister Mr. Harpal Singh Cheema, MLA Nihal Singh Wala Mr. Manjit Singh Bilaspur, and other attendees paid homage to Lala Lajpat Rai by offering floral garlands at his statue and remembering his sacrifice.
They also visited the library and other historical sites in the village and presented floral wreaths at the monument built in memory of the other village martyrs. The students of local schools presented songs and group performances, adding to the occasion's solemnity.
The Lala Lala Lajpat Rai Janamasthan Yadgar Committee also honoured prominent personalities during the ceremony.