On the birth anniversary of the revered nationalist leader Pandit Prem Nath Dogra, known fondly as Sher-e-Duggar, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) paid rich tributes today across Jammu and Kashmir. This heartfelt commemoration highlights the significant impact that Pt. Dogra had on Indian politics and the ongoing commitment of the BJP to uphold his legacy.
In Srinagar, the event unfolded at the BJP office, where National General Secretary Tarun Chugh, responsible for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, led the homage. Chugh, along with senior leaders, ceremoniously garlanded Dogra’s portrait, emphasizing the deep respect the party holds for its former leader.
Prominent leaders in attendance included Sat Sharma, J&K BJP President; Ashok Koul, General Secretary (Organization); Dr. Shehnaz Ganai, and Anwar Khan, who collectively offered floral tributes to the eminent political figure.
Tarun Chugh spoke passionately about Pt. Prem Nath Dogra’s legacy, stating, “An institution of national integration and selfless service,” underscoring his role in shaping modern BJP principles. He added, “His unwavering struggle for ‘Ek Vidhan, Ek Nishan, Ek Pradhan’ became the moral compass of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh and continues to inspire the BJP today.”
Chugh further noted that the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A by the Narendra Modi Government represents the fulfillment of Pt. Dogra’s dream and is “the ultimate tribute to his steadfast commitment to national unity.” This perspective resonates deeply with party members, reflecting their aim to advance unity across the region.
Sat Sharma called Pt. Dogra a visionary, highlighting his pivotal role in spearheading the Praja Parishad Movement, which championed the complete integration of Jammu & Kashmir with India. He emphasized, “Pandit Ji’s long-cherished dream has been realized under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”
Ashok Koul confidently recalled Pt. Dogra’s exemplary moral integrity and distinguished conviction, asserting that his leadership in the “Ek Vidhan, Ek Nishan, Ek Pradhan” movement was a crucial step towards abolishing the separate post of Prime Minister in Jammu and Kashmir.
In Jammu, the BJP leaders performed a Hawan, also paying their respects. Key figures present included MP (Lok Sabha) Jugal Kishore Sharma, along with J&K BJP General Secretaries Sanjita Dogra and Baldev Singh Billawaria. The ceremony at Dogra Chowk served as a solemn reminder of Pt. Dogra’s lasting impact on the region.
Jugal Kishore Sharma expressed that Pt. Dogra was “a towering statesman and patriot who led the historic Praja Parishad Movement for full integration of J&K with India.” His sentiments reflect the essence of the BJP’s mission to promote unity and integration within the region.
Sanjita Dogra inspired party workers to emulate Pt. Dogra’s selfless spirit, while Baldev Singh Billawaria reiterated that Dogra’s ideology fundamentally laid the groundwork for the unification of Jammu and Kashmir with the Indian Union.
The tributes paid to Sher-e-Duggar Pt. Prem Nath Dogra not only honor his legacy but also reaffirm the BJP’s ongoing commitment to the principles he stood for. Through this homage, both the leaders and party workers aim to reinvigorate their dedication to national integration, a cause that remains as significant today as it was during Pt. Dogra’s lifetime.