Belagavi, Karnataka – The Congress party has gathered to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi presiding over its historic session held in 1924. The celebrations kicked off on December 26, 2024, with prominent Congress leaders arriving at Veera Soudha, the venue of the original meeting.
The centenary event attracted notable figures, including Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi, party president Mallikarjun Kharge, and influential leaders such as Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. The festivities commenced with earnest discussions intended to reflect on the vision of Gandhi being echoed through the principles of non-violence, communal harmony, and self-rule.
The Congress Working Committee (CWC), which is the party's highest decision-making body, is using this occasion to formulate both short- and medium-term action plans for the future. Mallikarjun Kharge is scheduled to address the committee after K.C. Venugopal's welcome speech, followed by deliberations extending until 7 pm.
A notable highlight of the celebration involves the statue of Gandhi being unveiled at Suvarna Soudha, Karnataka's state assembly. This installation is expected to strengthen the party’s commitment to honoring Gandhi's legacy by showcasing its historical roots.
The coming public meeting, titled "Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan," scheduled for December 27, promises to rally party workers and leaders around Gandhi’s ideals, particularly emphasizing the relevance of the Constitution and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's contributions. Party leaders reflect on the importance of this gathering, particularly during trying times for the Congress, identifying parallels between present challenges and those faced during Gandhi's time.
A Congress leader stated, "The Congress needs a resurgence, like it did back in 1924. We are hopeful it makes some important functional changes and gets back to winning ways." This sentiment resonates amid the current political climate, compounded by remarks made by Home Minister Amit Shah concerning Ambedkar, which the Congress plans to address during the CWC discussions.
Much of the celebration's essence lies not just within the historical aspects but extends deeply within the community's spirit. Belagavi, where Gandhi first laid out foundational principles for the nation's freedom struggle, now echoes these ideals through the events of this centennial celebration. Historical anecdotes recounted by local party activists remind attendees of the original 1924 session, which served to unify diverse voices under the Congress’ banner.
Meanwhile, the narratives of local villages, such as Hudali, known for its adherence to Gandhi's values, signify the lasting impact of his teaching within nearby communities. The dedication to principles such as abstaining from alcohol and communal harmony is observed with pride, underpinning the legacy of Gandhi and reinforcing its relevance today.
On the ceremonial front, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah formally inaugurated the statue at Veera Soudha and participated by planting saplings, demonstrating the party's commitment to both remembrance and action. This ceremony also included the launch of various development works aimed at enhancing the local infrastructure and commemorative sites associated with Gandhi.
The atmosphere around these celebrations is charged with nostalgia for Gandhi's leadership, emphasizing the need for continuity of such principles which oppose divisive politics observed today. The party has made it clear this centenary is not merely historical but rather foundational for reshaping its future.
"Mahatma Gandhi took over as President of Indian National Congress on Dec 26th, 1924 – at what was then called Belgaum, now Belgavi. It was a historic session. Today the Extended Working Committee is holding its Nava Satyagraha Baithak at the same place. It will rededicate itself to protect, preserve, and promote Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy," mentioned Congress communication head Jairam Ramesh.
The centenary is being viewed as both honor and introspection by party leaders, who acknowledge the importance of adhering to Gandhi's values amid challenges posed by contemporary political narratives. All eyes now gaze toward the future of the Congress party as they attempt to reconcile past tenets with current realities.
Through this centenary celebration and the surrounding events, Belagavi firmly reestablishes itself as not only the historical seat of Indian independence thought but as the rallying point for perseverance against the socio-political issues of today.
