How Did BJP Honor Syama Prasad Mookerjee and Karnataka Kesari Jagannath Rao Joshi?

Bengaluru, June 23 (NationPress) The BJP in Karnataka commemorated the legacy of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, the founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, and celebrated the birth anniversary of Karnataka Kesari Jagannath Rao Joshi on Monday. State leaders offered floral tributes at their portraits displayed in the BJP state office located in Bengaluru.

Syama Prasad Mookerjee was a distinguished Indian politician, barrister, and academic who played a vital role in shaping India's political framework, especially post-Independence. He is notably recognized for establishing the Bharatiya Jan Sangh, which is the precursor to the BJP, and for his steadfast opposition to Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, granting special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Jagannath Rao Joshi, a dedicated swayamsevak and Jan Sangh leader, significantly contributed to Goa's independence from Portuguese rule. His foundational efforts were instrumental in the establishment of the BJP in Karnataka.

Prominent figures present at the event included BJP Central Parliamentary Board Member and former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanswamy, MLC Keshav Prasad, BJP State Chief Spokesperson Ashwathnarayan, Bengaluru North District President S. Harish, and Bengaluru Central District President Saptagiri Gowda, among other party officials.

During his address, Yediyurappa emphasized, “The slogan ‘One Constitution, One Nation’ advocated by Syama Prasad Mookerjee embodies his profound patriotism and vision for a unified India. His endeavors laid the ideological groundwork for the Bharatiya Jan Sangh.”

He continued, “In 1953, when he protested against the permit system in Jammu and Kashmir, Mookerjee was detained and died under dubious circumstances, marking a significant moment in India's political history.”

Yediyurappa highlighted that Mookerjee's contributions to politics, education, culture, and social service continue to motivate countless patriots and youth today. “We honor this great patriot with immense respect,” he remarked.

Regarding Jagannath Rao Joshi, Yediyurappa described him as a respected leader who devoted his life to fostering a nationalist political organization in Karnataka.

“Originally hailing from Maharashtra, he embraced Kannada and made significant contributions to Karnataka’s political and social fabric,” he noted.

“In acknowledgment of his service, the people and the state bestowed upon him the title ‘Karnataka Kesari.’ He worked relentlessly to instill nationalist ideology among the youth and society, playing a crucial role in strengthening the party in Karnataka,” he added.

On the occasion of his birth anniversary, heartfelt tributes were paid to his leadership. “He was a cornerstone of nationalist politics and public service,” Yediyurappa stated.

BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra also paid homage, asserting that Mookerjee and Joshi serve as sources of inspiration for the party.

At a different event in Shikaripura Mandal, located in Shivamogga district, Vijayendra noted that both leaders were pivotal in the establishment of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1951.

“Mookerjee was a nationalist who fought for the nation, and Joshi, recognized as Karnataka Kesari, was equally devoted to national service,” he remarked.

“On this special day, we remember and honor these two remarkable figures. Their struggles will continue to motivate us in the future,” Vijayendra added.

On social media, Tejasvi Surya, the National President of BJP Yuva Morcha and MP for Bengaluru South, expressed, “Humble tributes to Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, founder of the Jana Sangh, on his Punyatithi. A towering nationalist and strong advocate for the vision of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat', he passed away in custody in Jammu & Kashmir 71 years ago, at the age of just 52. His lifelong efforts for a united and strong Bharat continue to inspire generations.”