New Delhi, Oct 2: On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti and the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, Congress leaders and parliamentarians Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra paid tributes to two of India’s most revered figures, invoking their ideals as guiding lights in today’s turbulent times.

Rahul Gandhi, in a message shared on the social media platform X, honoured Mahatma Gandhi’s enduring legacy, describing him as the moral compass who stitched India together through the threads of truth, non-violence, and harmony.

“The ideals of Bapu, who united India through the principles of truth, non-violence, and harmony, will continue to inspire us to follow the path of peace, brotherhood, truth, and humanity in the face of hatred,” he wrote.

His tribute resonated with the spirit of Gandhi’s teachings, reminding citizens that the path of ahimsa and satyagraha remains as relevant today as it was during the freedom struggle.

His sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, echoing the sentiment of remembrance, paid homage to Lal Bahadur Shastri, whose leadership and simplicity left an indelible mark on the nation.

In her tribute posted on X, she wrote, “Respectful tributes to former Prime Minister of India, Lal Bahadur Shastri, on his birth anniversary, who gave the country a new direction with the slogan ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’. His simplicity, humility, and unwavering resolve to defend the rights of his countrymen will always guide us.”

Her words reflected admiration for Shastri’s quiet strength and his ability to inspire through action rather than rhetoric.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said: ” Hearty Greetings to all the countrymen on Gandhi Jayanti.

In a post on the social media paltform X, he said: “The ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, the great architect of the Indian freedom movement and Father of the Nation, who showed the path of peace to the entire world through supreme values ​​like truth, non-violence and Satyagraha, will always be a source of inspiration for us. Today, when his principles are being challenged, we are facing them by following Bapu’s teachings and guidance.”

Across the country, political leaders, civil society groups, and citizens marked the day with prayer meetings, cleanliness drives, and cultural programs.

Statues of Gandhi and Shastri were adorned with garlands, and their teachings echoed in schools and public spaces.

New Delhi, Oct 2: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi, revered as the ‘Father of the Nation’, and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on their birth anniversary, reaffirming that India will continue to walk in their footsteps to realise the vision of an ‘Atmanirbhar’ and ‘Viksit Bharat’.

He also arrived at the Raj Ghat to offer floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi.

Gandhi Jayanti commemorates Gandhi’s lifelong commitment to truth, non-violence, and social justice. It not only honours his philosophy of peace and ethical living but also serves as the International Day of Non-Violence, observed worldwide to spread his message.

Sharing his tribute on X, PM Modi wrote, “Gandhi Jayanti is about paying homage to the extraordinary life of beloved Bapu, whose ideals transformed the course of human history. He demonstrated how courage and simplicity could become instruments of great change. He believed in the power of service and compassion as essential means of empowering people.”

“We will keep following his path in our quest to build a Viksit Bharat,” the Prime Minister said.

Remembering Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary, PM Modi described him as an “extraordinary statesman”.

Born on October 2, 1904, in Mughalsarai, Uttar Pradesh, Shastri rose to become India’s second Prime Minister in 1964 following the demise of Jawaharlal Nehru.

He is immortalised for his historic slogan ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’, a tribute to the contributions of soldiers and farmers that continues to inspire generations.

Known for his humility, honesty, and deep bond with ordinary citizens, Shastri’s leadership left an enduring impact on India’s political and social fabric.

Paying his respects on X, PM Modi wrote, “Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Ji was an extraordinary statesman whose integrity, humility and determination strengthened India, including during challenging times. He personified exemplary leadership, strength and decisive action.”

“His clarion call of ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ ignited a spirit of patriotism among our people. He continues to motivate us in the endeavour of building a strong and self-reliant India,” he added.

Malegaon, Correspondent: Malegaon city has received major positive news from Mumbai. Within the next 8 to 10 days, a sub-office of the Waqf Board will be inaugurated in Malegaon in the presence of Education Minister Dada Bhuse, Waqf Board Chairman, and local MLA Mufti Ismail Qasmi.

Until now, people of Malegaon had to travel to Aurangabad, Nashik, and other cities for registration and management of mosque, madrasa, khanqah, and graveyard properties, facing several difficulties. The establishment of this sub-office has been a long-standing demand of Malegaon citizens.

This achievement has been made possible through the continuous efforts of Mufti Ismail Qasmi, Advocate Momin Mujeeb, AIMPLB Secretary Maulana Umrain Rehmani, AIMIM Chief Barrister Asaduddin Owaisi, Minister Dada Bhuse, and MP Dr. Shobha Tai Bachhav. Over the last two months, several meetings were held in Mumbai with Minority Affairs Minister Manikrao Kokate and departmental secretaries, where repeated representations were submitted.

During a recent meeting, Minister Kokate directed the CEO of the Waqf Board to look into the matter of excessive taxation on Waqf income. As per the July 5, 2023 Government Resolution, Waqf properties are supposed to be charged 2% tax, but currently 7% tax along with ₹1,000 penalty per year is being collected. Minister Kokate assured that this will be reviewed in the upcoming meeting, with a positive indication that the state may soon finalize the 2% rate.

Another major development came for the city’s youth. A ₹200 crore proposal has been submitted under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) for the development of a modern sports complex at Aziz Kalu Stadium in Malegaon. Once approved, construction will begin soon, providing the backward city—home to nearly 1.5 million people—with much-needed sports and recreation facilities.

In addition, Waqf Board has approved a scholarship scheme of ₹1 lakh per student for economically weak minority students pursuing PhD. Eligible students can approach the offices of **Khalid Sikandar or MLA Mufti Ismail Qasmi at Darul Khair for further details.

The joint efforts of community leaders, politicians, and social activists—particularly Advocate Momin Mujeeb, Mufti Ismail Qasmi, Barrister Asaduddin Owaisi, Minister Dada Bhuse, Dr. Shobha Tai Bachhav, and Maulana Umrain Rehmani were crucial in bringing these announcements closer to reality.