NEW DELHI: Vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar on Sunday expressed disappointment over what he called the ‘distortion’ of India’s history, criticising the selective glorification in history books that attributes India’s independence to a few individuals while neglecting the contributions of others.
Addressing the 138th birth anniversary celebration of Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Dhankhar said, “Our history books have done injustice to our heroes. Our history has been manipulated and doctored, creating a monopoly of a few who are credited with gaining us independence. It is an unbearable pain on our conscience. It is a burden on our soul and heart”
He called for significant changes in historical narratives and pointed to the commemoration of the first Bharat Sarkar in 1915 as a fitting occasion to reflect on these issues.
Describing Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh as a natural diplomat, statesman, visionary, and nationalist, the vice-president lauded his patriotism and foresight.
Dhankhar highlighted the contributions of unsung heroes like him, whose sacrifices and vision for the nation have been overshadowed in historical narratives. He called this neglect a “travesty of justice” and highlighted the importance of rectifying historical misrepresentation to give due credit to those who laid the foundations of India’s independence.
Expressing his disappointment at the lack of recognition for many freedom fighters, he said, “hat a travesty of justice, what a tragedy. In the 75th year of our independence, we have failed-miserably failed-to acknowledge the heroic feats of great men like Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh. Our history has not given him the place he deserves. The foundations of our independence, built on the supreme sacrifices of people like him and other unsung or lesser-sung heroes, have been misrepresented.”
Criticising the selective glorification in historical narratives, Dhankhar said, “We cannot nurture our history by indulgently crediting a few while marginalising others who played pivotal roles. It is imperative to present unvarnished historical accounts to inspire patriotic fervour in this generation and those to come.”
Dhankhar also touched upon the importance of farmers’ welfare in the nation’s economic progress. He linked the well-being of farmers to India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047 and called upon farmers to resolve their issues through dialogue.
He said, “We must remember not to fight amongst ourselves or deceive our own people, that is what we reserve for our enemies. Our people must be embraced. How can anyone rest when farmers’ issues remain unresolved?”