Congress reiterates commitment to secularism and justice at Sadbhavana Yatra event
Hyderabad: Irrigation and Civil Supplies Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy on Sunday reaffirmed the Congress party’s unwavering stand on secularism and justice during the 35th Rajiv Gandhi Sadbhavana Yatra Smarakotsavam held at Charminar.
Sadbhavana Yatra a legacy of unity and peace
Speaking at the event, Reddy stated that the Sadbhavana Yatra, initiated by former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1990, was a direct response to rising communal tensions. “This yatra embodies our fight for unity and peace,” he said. He added that both Indira and Rajiv Gandhi had chosen Hyderabad — a city often marked by communal discord to send national messages of harmony.
The event witnessed the participation of several top Congress figures, including Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, TPCC chief Mahesh Kumar Goud, and Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy.
Recognition for decades of commitment
Reddy commended BC Commission Chairman T. Niranjan for his unwavering role in organising the annual yatra commemorations over the past 35 years. Despite repeated police denials under the previous BRS government, Niranjan had continued the programme through protests and legal routes. Reddy called Niranjan’s elevation to a constitutional role “well-earned recognition.”
Salman Khurshid receives 2024 Sadbhavana Award
The Minister announced that the 2024 Sadbhavana Award would be conferred upon senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid. He highlighted Khurshid’s political legacy, tracing it to his grandfather, President Dr Zakir Husain, and father, Khurshid Alam Khan. Notably, both had served as External Affairs Ministers — a rare occurrence in Indian politics.
Reddy also recounted Khurshid’s political journey, which began as Officer on Special Duty to Indira Gandhi. Since then, Khurshid has held key ministerial positions including Law, Commerce, and Minority Affairs. The award, Reddy said, was a fitting recognition of Khurshid’s commitment to harmony and service.
In recalling past honorees, Reddy mentioned the 2018 award given to former Chief Minister Konijeti Rosaiah, underscoring the Congress party’s tradition of honouring leaders who stand for peace and integrity.
Congress highlights BC quota and questions Governor’s delay
The Minister further spotlighted the Congress-led Telangana government’s decision to introduce 42% reservations for Backward Classes. He described the measure as “scientifically grounded,” backed by extensive household data. According to him, the reservation law is applicable not only in local bodies but also across education and employment.
However, Reddy criticised the Governor for not forwarding the Bill to the Centre, despite unanimous Assembly approval. He termed the delay “unjustified” and urged the public to question those hindering the policy’s implementation.
Strong words against BJP’s divisive politics
Reddy took aim at the BJP-led Central Government, accusing it of attempting to divide the nation along religious lines. He stated, “Secularism is not negotiable. The Congress will resist all attempts to erode it.”
He paid tribute to Indira Gandhi’s 1984 visit to Hyderabad amid communal unrest and Rajiv Gandhi’s 1990 Sadbhavana Yatra. Both leaders, he noted, had braved difficult circumstances to promote peace and national unity.
Rajiv Gandhi’s legacy lives on
Recalling Rajiv Gandhi’s assassination during the yatra in 1991, Reddy said the October 19 commemoration aims to preserve his ideals. “Each year, we raise the party flag at the Sadbhavana memorial and honour those who reflect Rajiv Gandhi’s values,” he said. This legacy, he stressed, is not a matter of nostalgia but a call to action.
He concluded by affirming the Congress party’s enduring commitment to secularism, justice, and inclusive governance. “We urge all citizens to reject hatred and uphold unity,” he said.