Tributes poured in for Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the father of the nation, on his 74th death anniversary. In 1948, Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse at Birla House in Delhi.
The day is also observed as Martyrs' Day in honour of freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the nation.
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President Ram Nath Kovind visited Raj Ghat to pay homage to Gandhi, fondly remembered as Bapu.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted a tribute. He said that it is the duty of all Indians to popularise Gandhi's ideals. "Today, on Martyrs’ Day, paying homage to all the greats who courageously safeguarded our nation. Their service and bravery will always be remembered," he added.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi used the occasion to target his opponents. He said that a Hindutva-vaadi had shot the father of the nation, and now all Hindutva-vaadi feel that he is no more. However, MK Gandhi is still alive where there is truth, the Congress leader said. Rahul Gandhi also visited Raj Ghat to pay floral tributes to the late freedom fighter.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah credited MK Gandhi for igniting the flame of swadeshi, swabhasha, and swaraj. "Gandhi's thoughts and principles will always inspire Indians to serve the nation," he said.