On the birth anniversary of the revered nationalist leader Pandit Prem Nath Dogra, fondly known as Sher-e-Duggar, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) commemorated his contributions across Jammu and Kashmir today. This celebration highlighted Dogra’s pivotal role in advocating for national unity, marking a significant moment for the BJP.
In Srinagar, BJP National General Secretary and In-charge for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh Tarun Chugh spearheaded the commemorative event. Chugh, along with senior BJP leaders, garlanded the portrait of Pt. Dogra at the party headquarters, paying fitting tribute to the stalwart.
Among the leaders present were Sat Sharma, J&K BJP President, Ashok Koul, General Secretary (Organization), Dr. Shehnaz Ganai, and Anwar Khan, who all offered floral tributes to Dogra.
Chugh praised Pt. Dogra, calling him “an institution of national integration and selfless service.” He shared, “His unwavering struggle for ‘Ek Vidhan, Ek Nishan, Ek Pradhan’ became the moral compass of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh and continues to inspire the BJP today.”
Furthermore, Chugh noted that the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A by the Narendra Modi government actualized Pt. Dogra’s lifelong dream, describing it as “the ultimate tribute to his steadfast commitment to national unity.”
Sat Sharma underscored Dogra’s visionary leadership, which propelled the Praja Parishad Movement. He acknowledged Pt. Dogra’s dedication to the complete integration of Jammu & Kashmir with India, stating, “Pandit Ji’s long-cherished dream has been realized under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”
Ashok Koul reminisced about Pt. Dogra’s moral integrity and conviction while leading the “Ek Vidhan, Ek Nishan, Ek Pradhan” movement, which effectively abolished the separate Prime Minister’s post in J&K.
The celebrations also extended to Jammu, where BJP leaders, including MP (Lok Sabha) Jugal Kishore Sharma, J&K BJP General Secretaries Sanjita Dogra and Baldev Singh Billawaria, gathered to perform a Hawan and offered floral tributes at Dogra Chowk. It was a unifying moment for party members, reaffirming their commitment to Dogra’s legacy.
Sharma described Pt. Dogra as “a towering statesman and patriot who led the historic Praja Parishad Movement for full integration of J&K with India.” His remarks reinforced Dogra’s influence on the region’s political landscape and national policies.
Sanjita Dogra inspired party workers to embody Pandit Ji’s selfless spirit, encouraging them to identify with his vision for unity and pride. Baldev Singh Billawaria stressed that Dogra’s ideology laid the groundwork for Jammu and Kashmir’s unity with the Indian Union. His statements echoed the sentiments of many present, emphasizing the importance of continuing his legacy.
As BJP leaders reflect on Pt. Dogra’s contributions, they reaffirm their commitment to national integration. His role as an advocate for unity and his influential movements resonate with the party’s current goals. This tribute not only commemorates a leader but also strengthens the BJP’s vision for Jammu and Kashmir.
