Jaipur Estate Smruti Committee observed Shaheed Diwas At Laikera, paying tributes to martyred freedom fighters

Jharsuguda: The Jaipur Estate Smruti Committee observed “Shaheed Diwas” with solemnity in Laikera on Monday, honouring local freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The event saw a large turnout, reflecting the deep respect for the martyrs’ legacy.

The programme began with a procession from the block office, marching through the town to the statues of “Shaheed Karunakar Singh”, “Shaheed Khaga Naik”, and “Shaheed Kanhei Naik”. Floral tributes were offered amid patri-otic slogans, evoking their heroic stand against colonial oppression. A public meeting fol-lowed, where speakers recalled the martyrs’ sac-rifices and urged the com-munity to embrace their values of courage, unity, and selflessness. Former legislator Deepali Das (BJD) attended as chief guest.

In her speech, Das criticised recent statements by Jharsuguda MLA Tankadhar Tripathy (BJP), calling them “unnecessary and provocative.” She referred to remarks allegedly made by Tripathy during Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan’s visit to Jharsuguda for foundation-laying ceremonies of development projects.

Das accused ruling party leaders of indulging in blame games instead of addressing public con-cerns.

“Instead of personal at-tacks, leaders should fo-cus on people’s welfare,” Das said. “They must un-derstand farmers’ hard-ships, ensure proper mandi management, and handle issues like fly ash responsibly. Speaking the truth often unsettles those in power, but it’s vital for change.”

The event ended with a renewed call for unity, inclusive development, and respectful politics. Organisers stressed channeling the martyrs’ spirit into building a progressive district.