On Friday, India marked the 81st anniversary of the historic ‘Quit India Movement’, a pivotal moment in the country’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.

The occasion was solemnly observed in the Rajya Sabha, India’s upper house of parliament, led by Vice-President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar.

The ‘Quit India Movement’, launched on August 9, 1942, following Mahatma Gandhi’s rousing “Do or Die” speech at the Bombay session of the Congress on August 8, was a decisive campaign against British rule. Despite the arrest of top Congress leadership, the Indian populace rallied behind Gandhi’s call.

In his address to the Upper House, Dhankhar called upon members to reaffirm their commitment to India’s sovereignty and integrity, urging them to rededicate themselves to the service of the nation.

He emphasized the continued relevance of the ‘Quit India’ call in the current ‘Amrit Kaal’ (golden era), describing the movement as a testament to the power of collective determination and dedication.

The Vice President highlighted the movement’s role in energizing the masses, which ultimately led to India’s independence.

He also acknowledged post-independence efforts in areas such as poverty alleviation, literacy promotion, and social inclusivity, noting the nation’s pride in its progress as it approaches its centenary in 2047.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tribute to freedom fighters who participated in the ‘Quit India Movement’ led by Mahatma Gandhi.

PM Modi also emphasised the movement’s significant role in India’s struggle for independence from colonial rule.

“Homage to all those who took part in the Quit India Movement under Bapu’s leadership. It was truly a watershed moment in our freedom struggle,” PM Modi said in a post on X.

(Inputs from ANI)