Digvijaya Singh Pays Tribute to Sardar Patel and Indira Gandhi, Credits Both for Shaping India’s Map and Dignity of the Poor

New Delhi: On the occasion marking Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary and Indira Gandhi’s death anniversary, Congress MP Digvijaya Singh paid heartfelt tributes to both leaders, highlighting their monumental contributions to India’s unity and strength.

Speaking at a commemorative event, Singh said, “Today, we remember those figures. One is celebrating his birthday, and the other is commemorating his death anniversary… When the country gained independence, it was divided into small princely states… However, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, through discussions with the kings and nawabs of the princely states, shaped the country into what we see today.”

He emphasized that the modern geographical map of India owes its existence to the leadership and vision of Sardar Patel, who, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, and Babasaheb Ambedkar, unified the nation after Independence.

Turning his attention to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Singh lauded her for her political courage and strategic acumen during the 1971 war that led to the creation of Bangladesh. “As for Indira Gandhi, she even altered the country’s geographical map… Pakistan, a powerful nation, was split into two. She demonstrated her political acumen and courage, overthrowing a regime in Bangladesh that was acting against democratic values,” he said.

Highlighting her legacy among marginalized communities, Singh added, “Her courage, sharp intellect, and affection for the poor — even today, if you approach any Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, or poor family and ask them what Indira Gandhi gave them, they will tell you that Indira Gandhi gave them the right to live with dignity.”