Release Coins in Memory of Bhagat Singh
The All-India Shaheed Bhagat Singh Brigade, along with various social organizations, has made a fervent appeal to the Congress-led UPA government to expedite the release of commemorative coins honoring Shaheed Bhagat Singh. These coins, valued at Rs 100 and Rs 5, were announced by the government on the occasion of Bhagat Singh’s birth centenary.
Historical Announcement
Yadvinder Singh Sandhu, Chairman of the All-India Shaheed Bhagat Singh Brigade, recalled that the announcement to introduce these commemorative coins was made by the union government on September 28, 2007, at a public function in Amritsar. This significant declaration was intended to mark the birth centenary of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, one of India's most revered freedom fighters.
Birth Anniversary Release
On the following birth anniversary, September 28, 2008, the coins were ceremonially released at a function in Khata Kalan village in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar district, formerly known as Nawanshahr, in Punjab. Despite this ceremonial release, these coins have yet to be circulated among the general public. Yadvinder Singh Sandhu, who is also a kin of Bhagat Singh and runs an academic institute, expressed his disappointment that, even after three years since the initial announcement, the coins had not reached the market.
Appeal to the Prime Minister
In an effort to address this issue, the brigade wrote a letter to Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on November 10, drawing attention to the delay and urging the government to expedite the release of the coins. Despite this effort, the organization has not received a response, leading to growing frustration among its members.
Coins Ready for Release
Yadvinder Singh Sandhu highlighted the inexplicable delay in releasing the coins. He mentioned that the coins, minted at the Government of India Mint in Kolkata, were ready for distribution. On a special request, he was able to obtain specimens of both denominations from the mint. These samples were prepared and tested in 2008, demonstrating that there were no technical obstacles to their release.
Support from Social Organizations
The call for the immediate release of the coins has garnered widespread support from various social organizations. Groups such as the Rezangla Shaurya Samiti, formed in memory of soldiers who lost their lives in the 1962 war with China, the All-India Khatri Sabha, the Punjabi Sabha, the Brahmin Sabha, and the local Singh Sabha, have all joined the chorus for the coins' early introduction.
General Secretary’s Statement
Naresh Chauhan, General Secretary of the Rezangla Shaurya Samiti, articulated the collective frustration, stating that the delay in releasing the coins caused considerable discomfort. He emphasized that Bhagat Singh's legacy remains vibrant and his ideals continue to serve as a foundation for national strength.
Inspiration for Youth
Yadvinder Singh stressed that Bhagat Singh is a figure of immense admiration for all Indians. He argued that commemorative coins bearing Bhagat Singh’s image and memory would significantly inspire the youth, reinforcing the values of patriotism and sacrifice that Bhagat Singh exemplified.
A Call to Action
The campaign to release the commemorative coins is more than a call to honor a national hero; it is a movement to reconnect with the values that Bhagat Singh represented. His life and sacrifice continue to be a source of inspiration, and the introduction of these coins into circulation would serve as a tangible reminder of his enduring legacy.
Bhagat Singh’s Enduring Legacy
Shaheed Bhagat Singh's contributions to India's struggle for independence are unparalleled. Born on September 28, 1907, Bhagat Singh became a symbol of resistance against British colonial rule. His revolutionary activities, writings, and ultimate sacrifice at the young age of 23 have cemented his place in the annals of Indian history as a martyr who gave his life for the nation's freedom.
Educational Impact
Introducing the coins to the public would not only honor Bhagat Singh's memory but also serve an educational purpose. As these coins come into circulation, they would spark curiosity and discussion among the younger generation about Bhagat Singh's life, his ideals, and his role in India's freedom struggle. This, in turn, would help inculcate a sense of national pride and responsibility among young Indians.
Government’s Responsibility
The responsibility to honor the legacy of national heroes like Bhagat Singh lies with the government. By fulfilling its promise to release these commemorative coins, the government would be taking a significant step in recognizing and celebrating the contributions of one of India's greatest martyrs. It would also demonstrate a commitment to preserving the nation's historical and cultural heritage.
Community Involvement
The involvement of various social organizations in this campaign highlights the collective effort to honor Bhagat Singh. These organizations represent a broad spectrum of Indian society, united in their demand for the coins' release. Their support underscores the widespread admiration and respect for Bhagat Singh and the importance of keeping his memory alive in the public consciousness.
Commemorative Coins as Symbols
Commemorative coins serve as more than just currency; they are symbols of national pride and remembrance. The proposed Rs 100 and Rs 5 coins would be a fitting tribute to Bhagat Singh, ensuring that his legacy is recognized and celebrated across the country. These coins would remind every Indian of the sacrifices made by Bhagat Singh and his contemporaries in the pursuit of freedom.