Ahmedabad Pays Tributes to Martyrs of Hindu-Muslim Unity

July 1, 2008

Author: Mudassir Rizwan

Source: Indian Muslim News and Information

http://www.indianmuslims.info/news/2008/jul/01/ahmedabad_pays_tributes_martyrs_hindu_muslim_unity.html

Leading citizens of Ahmedabad Tuesday paid rich tributes to Vasant and Rajab who sacrificed their lives for communal harmony 62 years ago.

A memorial programme, organised by the Movement for Democracy (MSD) and other organisations, was attended by mayor Kanaji Thakor, deputy mayor Kalpanaben Bhatt and civic officials. A number of activists from NGOs like Sanchetna, Aapnu Mandal, Rashtriya Seva Dal, Drishti Media, and St. Xaviers Social Centre also participated.

MSD convenor Prakash N. Shah recalled the supreme sacrifice of Vasantrao Hegishte and Rajab Ali Lakhani who on July 1, 1946 - a rath yatra day - were killed by a mob during communal skirmishes.

"These martyrs are to be remembered as icons of struggle for justice, equality and socialism. The responsibility of fulfilling their unfulfilled dreams is to be carried by us, the present generation," he said.