Why Did It Take 41 Years for Sardar Patel to Receive the Bharat Ratna?
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Synopsis
Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticizes Congress for failing to honor Sardar Patel promptly, revealing it took 41 years for the Bharat Ratna to be awarded. As the 150th birth anniversary approaches, he emphasizes Patel’s vital contributions to India’s unity and announces grand celebrations, including a nationwide Run for Unity.
Key Takeaways
- Amit Shah criticizes Congress for neglecting Sardar Patel's recognition.
- It took 41 years for Patel to receive the Bharat Ratna.
- Annual celebrations will occur every October 31.
- A Run for Unity event will take place nationwide.
- Patel's legacy is crucial for India's national unity.
New Delhi, Oct 30 (NationPress) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday delivered a pointed critique of the Congress, alleging that they neglected to give proper recognition to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the key architect behind India’s unity. Shah stated that it was only after a span of 41 years following Patel's passing that the Congress-led government decided to bestow the Bharat Ratna, India's most prestigious civilian honor, upon him.
While addressing a press conference in anticipation of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel, Shah remarked, “Following Patel’s demise, the Congress attempted to diminish his legacy. It took them 41 years to recognize him with the Bharat Ratna. It was Prime Minister Modi who truly honored him by erecting the Statue of Unity.”
The Home Minister further elaborated, “I am here to share details regarding the 150th-anniversary festivities of Sardar Patel in Kevadia. We all recognize that Patel was instrumental in uniting India post-Independence and in establishing Ek Bharat. Tomorrow marks his 150th birthday, and since 2014, PM Modi has visited Kevadia each year to pay his respects.”
Emphasizing the importance of this year’s celebrations, Shah declared that the Home Ministry plans to organize a grand parade annually on October 31, Sardar Patel's birth anniversary.
“This year, a Run for Unity will also be held on a large scale across all states, union territories, districts, and police stations,” he mentioned.
Union Minister Shah also announced that an ‘Ek Bharat Parv’ will occur in Ekta Nagar from November 1 to 15, concluding on the birth anniversary of tribal hero Birsa Munda.
Shah characterized Patel as more than just a leader, stating, “Sardar Patel is not only an individual but a significant ideology. He was key in India's freedom movement and served as the backbone of many initiatives led by Mahatma Gandhi, who affectionately named him ‘Sardar’.”
Reflecting on Sardar Patel’s critical role in national integration, Shah remarked, “While the entire nation was celebrating Independence on August 15, Sardar Patel was in the command room, working with naval officers to secure Lakshadweep. Thanks to his leadership, our southern region became robust, and the islands joined India.”
Point of View
It's vital to recognize that while political narratives may differ, the legacy of Sardar Patel as a unifying figure in Indian history is undeniable. This discourse highlights the importance of acknowledging such leaders, regardless of past political dynamics, to foster national pride and unity.
NationPress
10/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Sardar Patel not awarded the Bharat Ratna sooner?
According to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, it took Congress 41 years after Patel's death to honor him with the Bharat Ratna, which he criticized as a failure to recognize Patel's contributions to India's unity.
What events are planned for Sardar Patel's 150th birth anniversary?
In celebration of Sardar Patel's 150th birth anniversary, events include a grand parade on October 31 and a nationwide 'Run for Unity' across various states and union territories.
What is the significance of Sardar Patel in Indian history?
Sardar Patel is revered as the architect of India's unity, playing a pivotal role in integrating the nation post-Independence and contributing significantly to the freedom struggle.
