CM pays tribute to martyrs of Mussoorie Firing Incident
Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 2 Sep: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami today virtually addressed a tribute programme organised at the martyrs’ site, Jhoolaghar, Mussoorie, in memory of the statehood activists who laid down their lives during the Uttarakhand movement. Paying homage to the martyrs of the Mussoorie firing, he said that the dream of Uttarakhand’s formation was realised through the struggle, penance, sacrifice and dedication of the activists. He added that the soil of Mussoorie stands witness to this struggle and sacrifice for the statehood. In 1994, thousands of statehood activists were peacefully demonstrating in Mussoorie against the Khatima firing, carrying in their eyes the vision of a better future for the coming generations.
The CM added that the sacrifice of the martyrs will remain immortal in the memories of every citizen of Uttarakhand. Reiterating his resolve, he affirmed that these sacrifices will never be forgotten and that it is the responsibility of all to acquaint the younger generation with the struggle for statehood. He highlighted the significant role played by women in the movement, noting that mothers and sisters strengthened the agitation through their participation and determination.
Dhami also asserted that that the activists are the foundation of Uttarakhand’s identity and pride. The state government has taken several important steps for their honour and welfare, including 10 per cent horizontal reservation in government jobs for activists and their dependants, extending the scope to include deserted, widowed and divorced daughters of identified activists. Identity cards have been issued to activists and 98 have been appointed to government service.
The CM reminded that the monthly pension of families of martyrs has been increased from Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,500. The pension of the jailed and injured activists has also been raised from Rs 6,000 to Rs 7,000, while active activists now receive Rs 5,500 instead of Rs 4,500 per month. For completely bed‑ridden disabled activists, the pension has been enhanced from Rs 20,000 to Rs 30,000 per month. In addition, up to two children of activists are entitled to free education in schools and colleges. He also reminded that the activists are also being provided free travel in Uttarakhand Transport Corporation buses.
Dhami further said that the government has implemented several historic measures, including 30 per cent horizontal reservation for women in government jobs, the country’s first Uniform Civil Code (UCC), a stringent anti‑cheating law and strict land laws. Over the past five years, more than 34,000 youth have been given government jobs through a transparent process.
He also stressed that to safeguard Uttarakhand’s identity and demography, anti‑conversion and anti‑riot laws have also been enforced. He reminded that strict action has been taken against any mindset working against the peace and culture of Devbhoomi and will continue to be taken in future.
The CM said that the government is working continuously for the overall development of the state. Road, rail, ropeway and air connectivity has expanded rapidly to the border areas. The Char Dham Yatra and religious tourism have been linked with modern facilities, while new opportunities for local employment and self‑employment are being created for the youth.
Among those present at the event were Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi, former MLA Jot Singh Gunsola, Mussoorie Municipal Chairperson Meera Saklani, BJP leader Ravindra Jugran and Dehradun District Magistrate Dr Ashish Chauhan.
