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Remembering the Tragedy of Partition

In Bhopal, the horrors of India's partition remain a dark chapter in the nation's quest for independence, a pain that citizens will never forget. This was not merely a moment in time but a historical grievance that continues to resonate deeply within the hearts of many. Such sentiments were expressed by guests during a two-day event commemorating the Partition Tragedy Remembrance Day.

The event commenced with remarks from Sanjay Dwivedi, former Director General of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) and a professor at Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism, along with Lajpat Ahuja, former Director of the Public Relations Department.

Ahuja shared his personal connection to the partition, stating that his family endured its pain, allowing him to understand this suffering intimately.

During the seminar, Professor Sanjay Dwivedi emphasized the importance of understanding the bloodshed that followed the 1947 partition. He noted that recognizing the pain of partition is crucial to prevent such events from recurring. A comprehensive understanding of our history is essential to grasp how we arrived at our current situation and where we need to head in the future. He pointed out that even during the freedom struggle, divisions existed among us, which the British exploited. We must acknowledge our shortcomings and fulfill our responsibilities. He remarked that had we been vigilant, partition might have been avoided. Despite the division, the country witnessed communal riots and bloodshed. He asserted that the youth, filled with a sense of national identity and unity, are key to preserving the integrity of the nation.

Lajpat Ahuja further noted that the Narendra Modi government’s declaration of Partition Tragedy Remembrance Day provides an opportunity for victims to share their pain with others. He highlighted that future generations can learn from the events surrounding the partition. Ahuja also mentioned the tragic labeling of fellow citizens as refugees post-partition.

He recounted the atrocities committed during the partition, particularly against women and young girls, emphasizing that victims of such tragedies often do not receive justice. Prashant Pathrabe, Additional Director General of the Press Information Bureau and Central Information Bureau, shed light on the significance of the freedom struggle and the Partition Tragedy Remembrance Day, mentioning that various programs are being organized by the Central Communication Bureau across several districts in Madhya Pradesh.

The event also featured speeches from Dr. Ajay Agrawal, Principal of Government Maharani Lakshmi Bai Girls College, Manish Gautam, Director of the Press Information Bureau, and Sharik Noor, Deputy Director of the Central Information Communication Bureau. The program was conducted by Assistant Director Parag Mandale, with the presence of Assistant Directors Karishma Pant, Ajay Upadhyay, Sameer Verma, and numerous esteemed citizens along with a large number of students.