Rana urges Govt to uphold Dogra pride
Jammu, Jul 16: National Conference Provincial President Devender Singh Rana on Sunday expressed shock and grave concern over the desecration of Mian Dido statue at Ambphalla in the heart of capital city and sought immediate arrest of the culprits involved in trampling with the Dogra pride.
“The sacrilegious act is unacceptable and those involved in hurting the sentiments of the Jammu people need to be brought to book urgently, lest the administration shall be responsible for the consequences”, Rana said during his visit to the site immediately after learning about the mischievous act.
Senior district officials, including the Additional Deputy Commissioner and the Superintendent of Police also reached the spot and assured Rana that the perpetrators would be nabbed soon and an FIR has been lodged in this regard. They also assured round the clock security of the historic statue, with necessary CCTV installations, apart from beautification of the memorial site.
Interacting with the outraged people, who had assembled at the site, the Provincial President said that Mian Dido, Data Ranpat and Baba Jitto were among the towering symbols of Dogra heritage, who have inspired generations because of their strong commitment to inclusiveness and harmonious growth of the diverse society. He said the people of the Duggarland attach immense reverence to these heroes who left an indelible mark of their selfless service to humanity, especially the peasantry and weaker sections of the society.
Pained over the disfiguring of the Mian Dido statue, Rana said the people will not let the incident go unnoticed and, therefore, it is incumbent upon the administration to act swiftly in this sensitive matter so that the widespread outrage is doused. He said Mian Dido has carved out a special place in the hearts of Jammuties for his spirit of accommodation, coexistence and tolerance. He said the life of Mian Dido has been full of selfless service and sacrifice that remains the high point of Jammu ethos even now.
He urged the people to maintain calm and cautioned the administration against delay in nabbing the culprits. He hoped the police to find out motivation behind such a heinous crime, as apprehensions about some elements trying to vitiate the peaceful atmosphere of Jammu cannot be ruled out. “The elements behind the act are therefore needed to be unmasked”, Rana added.
Rana also decided to undertake renovation and beautification of the Mian Dido Chowk in a PPP mode. (KNS)
