Jammu: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) on Saturday celebrated the 80th Independence Day with patriotic fervour at Sher-e-Kashmir Bhawan in Jammu, where the party leadership reaffirmed its commitment to democracy, secularism and social harmony.
Provincial president Rattan Lal Gupta hoisted the national flag in the presence of senior party leaders, legislators and workers, including former minister and additional general secretary Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, MLA Ramban Arjun Singh Raju, MLA Mahore Choudhary Khursheed Ahmed, provincial secretary Sheikh Bashir Ahmad and other party functionaries.
Speaking on the occasion, Ajay Kumar Sadhotra paid tributes to freedom fighters and national leaders whose sacrifices secured India’s independence.
Addressing the gathering, Gupta extended Independence Day greetings and called for strengthening the bonds of amity, peace and harmony that have long characterised Jammu and Kashmir’s pluralistic ethos. Emphasising the importance of secular values, he said India’s strength lies in its unity amid diversity.
Gupta said the National Conference remains committed to the principles of democracy, secularism and socialism, which guide the party’s vision of an inclusive and equitable society. He reiterated the party’s resolve to safeguard the land and employment rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and protect their interests and aspirations.
Paying tribute to freedom fighters including Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Chandrashekhar Azad and Subhas Chandra Bose, Gupta said their sacrifices continue to inspire future generations.
“As we celebrate the nation’s independence, the National Conference remains committed to working for the aspirations and rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and contributing towards a prosperous, united and harmonious India,” he said.
Later, Gupta also hoisted the Tricolour at Indira Chowk in Jammu during a programme organised by the party’s Jammu Urban unit.
The celebrations concluded with participants renewing their pledge to uphold the unity, integrity, secular fabric and democratic values of the nation.
