Amit Shah Hails Savarkar Statue Unveiling in Andaman and Nicobar as a Moment of National Pride

The statue was unveiled by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Dr Mohan Bhagwat, a gesture Shah termed as “adding to the glory” of the event. He noted that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have long stood as a silent witness to the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters, many of whom endured imprisonment and hardship there during the colonial era.

Referring to Savarkar as “Swatantryaveer,” Shah highlighted his role and contribution to India’s independence movement, stating that honouring him in a place so closely linked with the nation’s struggle against British rule carried deep meaning. According to the Home Minister, the unveiling was not merely a ceremonial act but a tribute that acknowledged Savarkar’s ideas, sacrifices and lasting influence on India’s nationalist thought.

Shah said the presence of Dr Mohan Bhagwat at the ceremony elevated its importance, describing the moment as one that reflected collective respect for those who dedicated their lives to the cause of freedom. He emphasised that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, often referred to as a land of sacrifice, symbolise the courage and resilience of freedom fighters who faced severe repression yet remained committed to the dream of an independent India.

Calling the event a source of pride for the country, Shah remarked that commemorating Savarkar in such a historically charged location sends a strong message about remembering and honouring all strands of the freedom movement. He added that recognising the contributions of leaders like Savarkar helps present a more complete understanding of India’s journey to independence, especially for younger generations.

The Home Minister’s remarks framed the unveiling as a moment that went beyond regional or organisational boundaries, positioning it as a national occasion rooted in history and collective memory. He said such initiatives reaffirm the country’s commitment to preserving and respecting the legacy of those who played pivotal roles during the freedom struggle.

The ceremony in Vijaypuram thus marked not only the installation of a statue but also a renewed emphasis on historical remembrance. By choosing the Andaman and Nicobar Islands—a place synonymous with sacrifice and resistance—the event reinforced the enduring relevance of India’s freedom fighters and the responsibility of the present generation to honour their contributions in both word and action.