Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary in Lucknow, remembering his contributions as an educationist, freedom movement participant and public leader.
Speaking on the occasion, Adityanath referred to Mookerjee's role in independent India's first Union Cabinet as the Minister for Industry and Supply and highlighted his contributions to education, including his tenure as the youngest Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calcutta at the age of 33.
The Chief Minister also spoke about Mookerjee's political journey, including his resignation from the Union government and his role in the formation of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh. Referring to Mookerjee's opposition to the special constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir, Adityanath said he had campaigned against the permit system and advocated the principle of one Constitution and one national framework for the country.
Adityanath further referred to the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, describing it as the fulfilment of Mookerjee's long-standing vision for national integration. He also highlighted Mookerjee's role during the Partition period, stating that he had opposed proposals related to Bengal's division and contributed to ensuring that West Bengal remained part of India.
The programme was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, state ministers Surya Pratap Shahi, Swatantra Dev Singh and Kapil Dev Agarwal, along with legislators and other public representatives.
The event formed part of the state government's observance of Mookerjee's 125th birth anniversary, during which speakers reflected on different aspects of his contribution to education, politics and public life.