Dhami is not only Dhakad but also Dhurandhar Dhami: Rajnath Singh

HALDWANI, 21 Mar: arrived in Haldwani on Saturday and addressed a mega rally here. The occasion was the completion of four years of the State government led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. During his address, the Defence Minister lauded Dhami for his remarkable performance over the past four years and described him as not only ‘Dhakad’ but also a ‘Dhurandhar’ leader.

In his speech, Rajnath Singh said that Uttarakhand is the land of the Vedas and the Gods, and added that he is well acquainted with the nature of its people, who exhibit mountain-like resolve and firmness. He observed that the State is a centre of faith, spirituality and culture, and a sacred land of sages and penance, whose traditions of knowledge and values continue to guide the entire nation. He further remarked that Uttarakhand, while being Devbhoomi and Tapobhoomi, is also Veerbhoomi, noting that whenever the security of the nation’s borders is at stake, the brave people of the state have never stepped back.

Referring to the tenure of the present government, he said that four years of the second term of Chief Minister Dhami are being completed, adding that Dhami has been at the helm for nearly five years while the BJP government has been in power for nine years, making the period significant. He appreciated the concern shown by the Chief Minister towards ex-servicemen and the families of martyrs, and noted that the state government has increased the ex gratia amount for recipients of the Param Vir Chakra from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 1.5 crore.

Rajnath Singh recalled that in 2022 the BJP secured a clear majority in Uttarakhand under the leadership of Dhami, and said that while he had earlier referred to him as ‘Dhakad Dhami’, he now considers him equally a ‘Dhurandhar Dhami’. Using a cricketing analogy, he remarked that on completion of four years, Dhami has hit a ‘four’ and expressed confidence that he would go on to hit a ‘six’ upon completing six years in office.

Highlighting the achievements of the State government, the Defence Minister said that Uttarakhand has witnessed rapid development under Dhami’s leadership, whether in infrastructure expansion, giving a new direction to tourism, or generating employment opportunities for the youth. He added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the State is playing an important role in the country’s overall development.

He also emphasised that Uttarakhand is a land of women empowerment, recalling figures such as Karnavati, Gaura Devi and Bachendri Pal, and said that the daughters of the State have brought laurels to the nation. He noted that women’s participation in government services is increasing, with 30 per cent reservation being provided to them in government jobs.

Singh further said that a Sainya Dham has been constructed in honour of soldiers, and that work on the Char Dham all-weather road project is progressing, describing it as a historic initiative. He observed that where earlier pilgrims had to travel on risky roads, safe and all-weather connectivity is now being ensured through this project.

Taking a strong stand on corruption, the Defence Minister asserted that while irregularities were reported earlier in Uttarakhand, now anyone involved in corruption finds a place in jail, adding that the imprisonment of over 200 individuals has sent a clear message that no one is above the law. He asserted that his party does not engage in politics merely to form governments, but to build the nation, and stressed the need to preserve the cultural sanctity of Uttarakhand. Referring to the global situation, he said that the world is currently affected by conflicts, but under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has so far been kept away from crises, and appealed to the public to extend their support.

Earlier, Singh arrived in Nainital district to attend the special programme marking four years of the Dhami government. He was accorded a warm welcome in Haldwani by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. At the helipad, the CM greeted him with a traditional Uttarakhandi cap and a bouquet, while the Defence Minister conveyed his good wishes. The camaraderie between the two leaders was evident from arrival to the stage during the event. It is noteworthy that Rajnath Singh shares a close association with Dhami and had earlier conferred upon him the title of ‘Dhakad Dhami’, often praising him on public platforms, while Dhami regards him as a mentor and invited him as the chief guest for the programme marking the completion of four years of the state government.