Republic Day observed in UP

Lucknow, Jan 26 (UNI) The 58th Republic Day was celebrated in Uttar Pradesh today with traditional enthusiasm and gaiety.

The main function was held in front of the Vidhan Bhavan, where Governor T V Rajeswar unfurled the national flag and took the salute.

Contingents of the state police, NCC and schools took part in the march past.

Various cultural items were presented by schools and over 10 tableaux representing state government departments and other organisations also took part in the parade.

Meanwhile, police sources here said celebrations were underway on a peaceful note in the entire state and no untoward incident was reported from anywhere.

Chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav after hoisting the national flag at the Samajwadi Party office here said the countrymen should observe the day as commitment day so that the country develops and becomes one of the richest countries in the world.

Although the CM admitted that due to lapses in implementation of the projects and schemes, the country is unable to achieve the goal at present.

He also called upon the youth to remember sacrifices made by the freedom fighters to end the British slavery.

Meanwhile in Varanasi, over 30 Shiv Sena activists attempting to hoist the national flag atop the ASI protected riverside 'Madhavrao Ka Dharahra' monument were arrested from Gaighat area.

UNI