Shadow Correspondent
Jammu, Nov, 17
Former Chief Minister and National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Sunday announced that a suitable place will be identified to install a statue of the veteran Congress leader Pandit Mangat Ram Sharma to honor his immense contribution to Jammu and Kashmir’s politics.
While paying tributes to the great leader, the National Conference president said that this gesture reflects the deep admiration and respect Sharma commands across the political spectrum.
Dr. Farooq Abdullah paid heartfelt tributes to the veteran Congress leader recalling his exceptional leadership qualities, compassion, and dedication to public service. Dr. Abdullah highlighted Sharma’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life, earning him respect across party lines.
Dr. Abdullah also shared a heartwarming anecdote that showcased Pt. Mangat Ram Sharma’s remarkable connection with the people. He recounted an incident where villagers approached Pt. Sharma, distressed over their buffaloes straying across the border into Pakistan.
In his characteristic style, Pt. Sharma assured the villagers he would take immediate action. He instructed his personal assistant to stage a phone call to Pakistan’s then-Prime Minister, Benazir Bhutto, urging her to instruct the authorities to return the buffaloes.
Though the call never actually connected, Pt. Sharma’s imaginative leadership instilled confidence in the villagers. A few days later, the buffaloes returned of their own accord, but the villagers attributed their return to Pt. Sharma’s “intervention.”
Overwhelmed with gratitude, they gathered in large numbers to thank him, a testament to his ability to connect with people and resolve their concerns, no matter how unconventional the situation.
The birth anniversary of Pt. Mangat Ram Sharma was commemorated with great reverence in Jammu today. The event, held at Eden Gardens Hall, was graced by the presence of Dr. Farooq Abdullah, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, as the Chief Guest. The function was presided over by Tariq Hameed Karra, President of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC).
Sharma’s six-decade-long political career was marked by his commitment to serving the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He held various positions, including Deputy Chief Minister, Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, and Health Minister. His legacy extends beyond his political achievements, inspiring generations to come.
Dr. Abdullah’s tribute and the announcement to install a statue of Sharma serve as a testament to his enduring impact on Jammu and Kashmir’s politics and society.
Speaking on the occasion JKPCC President Tariq Hamid Karra remembered him as a people’s man, whose doors were always open to everyone, regardless of caste, creed, or colour.
Mr. Karra further said that Pandit Ji’s commitment to public service and dedication to the people of Jammu and Kashmir will be remembered for generations to come.
The occasion drew a large gathering of senior Congress and National Conference (NC) leaders, family members of Pt. Mangat Ram Sharma, representatives of various social organizations, and notable members of civil society. Among the prominent attendees were former Ministers Raman Bhalla working president JKPCC , Ch. Lal Singh, Balwan Si ngh, Ravinder Sharma, Ved Mahajan, Ratan Lal Gupta, Jahangir Mir, Rajnish Sharma (Mian), Bhushan Lal Bhat, T.S. Tony, Shabir Ahmed Khan, and Har Singh Chib Adv. Shah Mohd Chaudhary Manmohan Singh,Besides family members of Pt ji.
Describing Pandit Ji as as a beloved leader who worked tirelessly for the welfare of all sections of society Mr. Karra highlighted Pt. Mangat Ram’s unique approach to leadership and unwavering commitment to public service.
Shri Raman Bhalla described pt ji as leader of masses. Mangat Ram Sharma, decades-long public service left an indelible mark on the socio-political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. He & all Speakers lauded his efforts to bridge communal and regional divides, his dedication to grassroots development, and his unwavering focus on the welfare of the marginalized.
Ch Lal Singh paid rich tributes to him and termed him a stalwart leader & recalled the values he espoused, inspiring the current generation of leaders to follow in his footsteps. He recalled that Pt ji raised the issue of several separate department directorates & were established in Jammu.
Rajnish Sharma ( Mian) PCC treasurer & son ol Pt ji thanked Dr Farooq Abdullah for fulfilling the promise of statue and PCC president Tariq Hameed karra & other speakers for their participation.
