Freedom fighters honoured by Najeeb Jung

Delhi L-G Najeeb Jung with freedom fighters during a function as part of the 70th Independence Day celebrations at Raj Nivas (Photo: PTI)

Veterans, many in wheelchairs, who partook in the freedom struggle, on Tuesday gathered in a moving ceremony at the Raj Nivas where lieutenant governor Najeeb Jung felicitated them and spoke on the need to bring out the “untold stories” behind India’s independence movement.

Casting aside their ailments, the freedom fighters, mostly aged above 90, were on high spirits throughout the event titled ‘Azadi 70 – Yaad Karo Qurbani’, as they recalled the heady days of the independence movement and crooned patriotic songs.

Mr Jung stated that while a generation that was born out of the freedom movement was aware of the hardships faced by the veterans, many belonging to the younger generation “may or may not know of India’s glorious past”.

He said there are several biographies, novels, films and songs which chronicle that history, however, millions of untold stories are waiting to be unravelled and widely disseminated.

“The freedom fighters amidst us are a repository of that history and can help enlighten the young about India’s glorious struggle for Independence,” Mr Jung said during the function which was attended by families of the veterans as well.