Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik and Samajwadi Party president Mulayam Singh in paying rich tributes to Ram Manohar Lohia on his 105th birth anniversary.
Remembering Dr. Lohia, the Prime Minister described him as a thinker par excellence, who left a deep impact on Indian politics. Mr. Modi also noted the importance given by him to cleanliness. The Prime Minister tweeted: “On his birth anniversary, I pay my tributes to Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia, a thinker par excellence who left a deep impact on Indian politics. Among many other things, Dr. Lohia’s commitment towards cleanliness continues to inspire us.”
Since Dr. Lohia is considered the Samajwadi Party’s ideologue, the main function in Lucknow was held at the Ram Manohar Lohia Park in Gomtinagar, where his contributions were recalled by Mr. Singh and the Governor. Also present were Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, SP National General Secretary Ram Gopal Yadav, senior Minister Shivpal Singh Yadav and a host of SP leaders.
A book penned by Prof. Ram Gopal titled, “Dr. Lohia aur Unka Samajwad,” was released by the Governor and Mr. Singh. They had earlier paid floral tributes at Dr. Lohia’s statue in the sprawling park.
Returning to the public platform after his recent illness, the SP president urged the youth and his party leaders to follow Dr. Lohia’s ideals. Advising those present to read the book, Mr. Singh said Dr. Lohia’s philosophy could not be understood without reading it.
“Instead of raising slogans in support of party netas, the workers should concentrate on following Dr. Lohia’s ideals.” Describing Dr. Lohia as the “architect of opposition unity,” the Governor said he was a famous socialist thinker, writer and linguist. “Dr. Lohia took an active part in the freedom struggle.”
