Jammu, Dec 28: The Jammu and Kashmir unit of the Indian National Congress on Sunday marked the party’s 140th Foundation Day with a well-attended function at the PCC headquarters, Shaheedi Chowk, Jammu.
Working President Raman Bhalla hoisted the party flag in the presence of senior leaders, including former minister Mula Ram, Chief Spokesperson Ravinder Sharma and I/C Headquarters Ved Mahajan. The ceremony began with the traditional salute and the National Anthem, followed by slogans raised by party workers.
The programme was organised by the District Congress Committee Jammu Urban under the leadership of Thakur Manmohan Singh, in coordination with the Congress Seva Dal led by Vijay Sharma. Party functionaries from the PCC, DCCs, blocks and frontal wings attended the event. Members of the AICC Media Team were also present.
A large number of senior leaders, former ministers, district presidents and party workers from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir participated, reflecting strong organisational presence on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Raman Bhalla said the Congress has a long history of struggle and sacrifice for the country’s freedom and for protecting unity, integrity and diversity. He cautioned party workers that the present times demand alertness and commitment, alleging that democratic values and constitutional institutions are under strain. Bhalla said rising unemployment and pressure on farmers were major concerns and called upon Congress workers to stand firm in defence of people’s rights.
He said the Congress remains committed to its principles of truth and equality and has always raised issues affecting the common people. Bhalla also paid tribute to generations of party workers whose efforts, he said, have sustained the organisation over the decades.
Reiterating the party’s stand on Jammu and Kashmir, Bhalla said the Congress would continue its struggle for early restoration of statehood and democratic rights. He also stressed the need to protect land and job rights of local youth and urged party workers to counter what he termed as false narratives spread by rival parties.
Former minister Mula Ram, in his address, said the Congress stands for the idea of India based on unity in diversity. He said that throughout its long history, the party has consistently opposed communal and divisive forces and continues to do so at a time when such tendencies pose a serious challenge to social harmony.
Several senior leaders, former legislators and district presidents also spoke on the occasion, calling for unity within the party and a united political fight against divisive politics.
