Agartala, Oct 31: Observance of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas has assumed greater significance amid attempts by forces within the country, allegedly backed by foreign interests, to undermine India’s unity and territorial integrity, Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha said on Saturday.
Speaking to reporters on the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Saha stressed the need for collective efforts to safeguard national unity and uphold the ideals of the country’s first deputy prime minister, popularly known as the Iron Man of India.
“It is a serious issue. Attempts are being made to undermine the country’s integrity with foreign support. In this context, the observance of Ekta Diwas on his birth anniversary is highly relevant,” he said, without naming any individual, organisation or political party.
Highlighting Patel’s contribution to national integration after Independence, Saha recalled his role in bringing more than 560 princely states into the Indian Union, describing his efforts as a lasting example of leadership and nation-building.
He also underscored Patel’s contribution as the country’s first home minister, saying his commitment to national consolidation and maintaining law and order continued to inspire generations.
Saha emphasised the importance of engaging young people in promoting national unity, noting that students, security personnel and government employees participated in the Run for Unity to reaffirm their commitment to the country’s unity and integrity.
The chief minister said the observance had gained prominence since Narendra Modi became prime minister in 2014, with the day dedicated to commemorating Patel’s contribution to national integration.
Earlier, Saha administered the National Unity Day pledge at Swami Vivekananda Maidan in Agartala before flagging off the state-level Run for Unity, organised by the Sports and Youth Affairs Department.
The 2.5-km run that concluded at Umakanta Academy, saw participation from personnel of the Assam Rifles, Border Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force and Tripura Police, besides students, government officials and representatives of various institutions.
ARDD and Fisheries Minister Sudangshu Das, MLAs Meena Rani Sarkar and Antara Sarkar Deb, senior officials and other dignitaries attended the programme.
