February 7, 2018
Vivek Gupta speaks on demand for national holiday on Swami Vivekananda and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birthdays
FULL TRANSCRIPT
I am thankful to you, Sir, for giving me the opportunity to speak. Sir, I am both sad and disappointed today as I speak. I am sad because, two great sons of Bengal – Swami Vivekananda and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose – who made India famous internationally, lie in neglect today.
Sir, my grandfather named me Vivek inspired by Swami Vivekananda. We all know about his contributions to this country; I will not repeat them. While the Prime Minister invokes Swami Vivekananda in his speeches, no action is seen on the government’s part to spread his teachings.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Indian National Army’s contribution to the freedom movement is well known. Their contribution has not been fairly judged by history.
Our Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, had written to the Prime Minister few days ago, demanding that the birth anniversaries of these stalwarts be declared national holidays. I want reiterate the demand and request the Centre to act on the CM’s letter.
I also urge the Centre to popularise the life and works of Swami Vivekananda and Netaji through textbooks.
Thank you, Sir.
