Shaurya and Legacy of Karmaveer Jayanand Bharti Remembered on the 94th Anniversary of Pauri Kranti Diwas
By – Prem Pancholi
The Shail Shilpi Vikas Sangathan organized a commemorative programme in Kotdwar, Garhwal, to honour Karmaveer Jayanand Bharti on the 94th anniversary of the historic Pauri Kranti Diwas, observed on September 6, 1932, as a significant chapter in the freedom struggle in Garhwal.
During the programme, speakers reflected on Jayanand Bharti’s historic Dola-Palki Movement and his contribution to India’s freedom struggle. They emphasized that the issues and principles for which Bharti fought remain relevant even today, and that society needs movements inspired by his legacy to address contemporary challenges.
The programme was chaired by Jogaram Tamta, veteran journalist and Editor of Shilpkar Times. Former Cabinet Minister Surendra Singh Negi was the chief guest.
On the occasion, the Shail Shilpi Vikas Sangathan conferred the Jayanand Bharti Award upon Kishore, an RTI activist and journalist from Pithoragarh.
Speaking on the occasion, former minister Surendra Singh Negi said that the valour and contribution of Jayanand Bharti could never be forgotten. He said that Karmaveer Jayanand Bharti fulfilled his responsibilities as a freedom fighter with dedication, although he was never officially accorded the government’s recognition as a freedom fighter. Nevertheless, society has always regarded him as one.
Negi said that along with participating in the freedom struggle, Bharti also led a widespread movement against social evils and discriminatory practices prevalent in society. His struggle ultimately succeeded and the Dola-Palki Movement became an inspiring example in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand.
He further said that Jayanand Bharti was imprisoned and remained steadfast in his opposition to British rule. His life, he said, should not merely be remembered as a part of history; his ideals and activism remain relevant even today.
Expressing concern over the present situation, Negi said that the condition of society has deteriorated considerably and that freedom of expression is increasingly under threat. “This is precisely why there is a need today to follow in the footsteps of Jayanand Bharti,” he said.
Social thinker Indresh Maikhuri said that the courage and struggles of Jayanand Bharti remain alive in history. Addressing both historical and contemporary issues, he said that while society is moving towards technology and new innovations, attempts are simultaneously being made to push India, and particularly Uttarakhand, back into a regressive and conservative social environment. He warned that such a trend could create serious challenges for the future.
Maikhuri emphasized that “Jayanand Bharti is needed once again today”, particularly to inspire society to stand against injustice and regressive practices.
Among those present on the occasion were Jogaram Tamta, Editor of Shilpkar Times; Vinod Arya, Assistant Director, Urban Development; Raghunath Lal Arya; Om Prakash Bharti; Dheeraj Barswan; Advocate Avnish Negi; Dr. Diwakar Bauddh; M. L. Bharti; Surendra Lal Arya; Dr. Surendra Arya; and environmentalist Mr. Soni.
