UP CM, governor pay tribute to Gandhi, Shastri

Lucknow, Oct 2 (UNI) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati and Governor T V Rajeswar paid rich tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at G P O park in Hazaratganj area here on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti today.

Besides, a programme was organised at the Tilak Hall, where the UP CM and Governor appealed to the people of the state to follow the path shown by the 'Father of Nation' and former prime minister, late Lal Bahadur Shastri, by rendering service to the poor and deprived.

Addressing the programme, Mr Rajeswar said Gandhiji and Shastriji struggled throughout their lives for independence and prosperity of the country.

Expressing concern over the increasing terrorist activities in the country, the Governor said terrorism was the biggest challenge of today and in this backdrop, truth and non-violence, taught by Mahatma Gandhi became more relevant.

On the occasion, Ms Mayawati said by resolving to make a new India, by taking inspirations, thoughts, struggles and ideas of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri, would be a real tribute to them.

The UP CM said attaining political independence was not an end but a starting point, on which the framework of better present and future could be erected.

The programme started off with the recitation of ''Vande Mataram''. The Governor, CM and BSP's General Secretary Satish Chandra Mishra paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri in front of their statues.

Minister for Mines and Minerals, Babu Singh Kushwaha, Cabinet Secretary Shashank Shekhar Singh and Chief Secretary Atul Kumar Gupta were also present on the occasion.

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