JAMMU, Jul 26: Senior BJP leader and former minister Bali Bhagat paid rich tributes to Pandit Sita Ram Sepolia on his 11th death anniversary, remembering him as a steadfast nationalist, an exceptional organiser and a leader who devoted his entire life to serving the nation.
A commemorative programme was organised at Sepolia’s native village, Seri Panditan, in Bhalwal Block. BJP General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul, Member of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma, BJP J&K President Arun Prabhat and several other senior party leaders joined the gathering and offered floral tributes to the late leader.
Speaking on the occasion, Bali Bhagat said Pandit Sita Ram Sepolia was a stalwart of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh and among the founding members of the Bharatiya Janata Party in 1980. He said Sepolia represented the highest ideals of ideological commitment, organisational discipline and selfless public service.
“Pandit Sita Ram Sepolia Ji dedicated his entire life to nationalist ideals, organisational strength and tireless service to the nation. His contribution to strengthening the Jana Sangh and subsequently the BJP at the grassroots level will always be remembered,” Bhagat said.
Recalling Sepolia’s association with towering leaders such as Sher-e-Duggar Pandit Prem Nath Dogra and former Prime Minister Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Bhagat said he played a pivotal role in several historic movements concerning Jammu and Kashmir.
He particularly highlighted Sepolia’s courageous participation in the Praja Parishad movement under the clarion call of “Ek Vidhan, Ek Nishan, Ek Pradhan.” Bhagat said the movement reflected Sepolia’s unwavering commitment to the complete constitutional and emotional integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India.
“Through decades of struggle, grassroots mobilisation and dedicated leadership, Pandit Sita Ram Sepolia Ji laid a strong foundation for the growth of the nationalist ideology across the region. His courage, simplicity and loyalty to the nation continue to inspire generations of party workers,” Bali Bhagat added.
The former minister said the most meaningful tribute to the late leader would be to follow his principles and work with unity, discipline and dedication for a strong and developed India.