Did Indira Gandhi Government Honor Veer Savarkar?

How Indira Gandhi’s Government Honored Veer Savarkar

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, popularly known as Veer Savarkar, was a revolutionary freedom fighter, nationalist, and writer who played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence. Despite being a controversial figure in Indian history, he was widely respected for his contributions to the nationalist movement. While his legacy remains a topic of debate, it is noteworthy that even the government of Indira Gandhi, who was associated with the Congress party that often had ideological differences with Savarkar, recognized and honored his contributions.

This article explores how Indira Gandhi’s government acknowledged and honored Veer Savarkar during its tenure.

Indira Gandhi’s Admiration for Veer Savarkar

Indira Gandhi, despite belonging to the Congress party, held a certain degree of admiration for Veer Savarkar. This is evident from her letters and actions during her tenure as Prime Minister. She acknowledged his sacrifices for the country and the hardships he endured, particularly his imprisonment in the Cellular Jail of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

In 1970, Indira Gandhi, as the Prime Minister of India, took significant steps to commemorate Savarkar’s contributions. Some of these initiatives included financial grants for the preservation of his legacy and public acknowledgment of his role in India’s freedom struggle.

Issuance of a Postal Stamp in Savarkar’s Honour

One of the most prominent ways in which Indira Gandhi’s government honored Veer Savarkar was through the issuance of a commemorative postal stamp in 1970. The stamp was released to acknowledge his contributions to India’s struggle for independence. The initiative was taken despite opposition from several factions within the Congress, showcasing Indira Gandhi’s willingness to recognize the contributions of all freedom fighters, regardless of ideological differences.

The stamp featured an image of Savarkar and was a significant recognition of his role in the national movement. Issuing postal stamps is a practice used by governments to honor great personalities, and the release of one in Savarkar’s name was an official acknowledgment of his place in history.

Financial Grant to Savarkar’s Residence

Another significant step taken by Indira Gandhi’s government was the allocation of a financial grant for the upkeep and maintenance of Savarkar’s residence in Mumbai, which is now known as Swatantryaveer Savarkar Rashtriya Smarak. This grant was given to help preserve his legacy and ensure that future generations could learn about his contributions to the nation.

This move was an important recognition of Savarkar’s role in India’s history, as it ensured that his memory would be preserved for future generations. It also demonstrated that, despite political and ideological differences, Indira Gandhi believed in honoring all those who had contributed to India’s freedom movement.

Indira Gandhi’s Tribute to Savarkar

Apart from official recognitions, Indira Gandhi also personally acknowledged Savarkar’s role in India’s independence struggle. In a letter written in 1970, she praised Savarkar’s courage and sacrifices, recognizing his immense contribution to the nation. This was a significant gesture, as it came from a leader of the Congress party, which had historically been at odds with Savarkar’s ideology.

Indira Gandhi’s letter reflected her broader vision of nationalism, where she acknowledged freedom fighters from different ideological backgrounds. She emphasized that the sacrifices of all those who fought for India’s independence should be remembered and respected.

Savarkar’s Legacy and the Recognition by Indira Gandhi’s Government

The recognition given to Savarkar during Indira Gandhi’s tenure was particularly significant because it came at a time when his legacy was often viewed through a political lens. Many political parties and historians had differing opinions on his role in history, but the Congress government under Indira Gandhi chose to officially honor him.

This recognition set a precedent for future governments, as subsequent administrations also took steps to honor Savarkar. Today, his contributions are widely acknowledged across political spectrums, and his role in India’s freedom struggle continues to be remembered.

Conclusion

The recognition of Veer Savarkar by Indira Gandhi’s government was a remarkable step, considering the ideological differences between Savarkar and the Congress party. The issuance of a commemorative postal stamp, the financial grant for his memorial, and Indira Gandhi’s personal tributes to him all signify that his contributions to India’s independence were respected and acknowledged even by those who did not share his political views.

Indira Gandhi’s actions demonstrated that national interest and respect for freedom fighters transcended political affiliations. Her government’s acknowledgment of Savarkar’s contributions remains a significant chapter in India’s history, reinforcing the idea that the sacrifices of all freedom fighters deserve recognition, regardless of ideological differences.