Chouhan in Bihar: Celebrates Martyr Buddhu Nonia’s Legacy, Reaffirms Commitment to the Marginalised
Union Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, visited Patna on June 16 to mark the centenary celebration of freedom fighter Buddhu Nonia, a martyr whose sacrifice remains etched in India’s fight against colonial rule.
The event witnessed a massive turnout from the Nonia community and leaders including Union Minister Renu Devi, Bihar Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, and BJP state president Dr. Dilip Jaiswal.
Statue of Martyr Buddhu Nonia in Patna Soon
At the event, Shri Chouhan announced the installation of Buddhu Nonia’s statue in Patna, thanking the Bihar government for honoring the freedom fighter’s unparalleled sacrifice.
He recounted how Buddhu Nonia was thrown into a boiling cauldron of salt by the British during the Salt Satyagraha, yet continued chanting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram.” His defiance became a symbol of the indomitable spirit of India’s revolutionaries.
“We are proud to represent a society in which our great martyr Buddhu Nonia was born,” said Shri Chouhan.
Highlighting Nonia and Chouhan Community Uprisings
Shri Chouhan shed light on historic uprisings led by these communities, particularly around 1770, when the Sanyasi Rebellion and Nonia Rebellion arose. Though economically poor, these communities displayed unmatched courage in fighting colonial oppression.
He stressed that these contributions must be recognized and integrated into the national consciousness.
PM Modi’s Government: Empowering the Marginalised
The Union Minister highlighted the transformative efforts of the Modi government and the Nitish-led Bihar government for the poor, backward, and marginalised.
He reaffirmed that “every eligible poor person will get a house under the PM Awas Yojana” and also referenced the rise of “Lakhpati Didis”, showcasing women’s increasing economic self-reliance in Bihar.
Shri Chouhan said,
“If our sisters walk with dignity today, it’s because of NDA’s focus on women empowerment.”
Support for ST Status and Caste Census
The timing of the event was significant as it coincided with Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah’s announcement of caste census notification. Chouhan thanked the Prime Minister and Home Minister, asserting that voices from the Nonia community would be fully conveyed to the Centre.
He mentioned that 95% of the community lives in extreme poverty, and said the demand for Scheduled Tribe status will be reviewed positively. The suggestion came from Renu Devi and received a strong response from the crowd.
Appeal for Unity and Respect for Ambedkar
Chouhan also strongly condemned those who insult Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, asserting that the nation will not forgive such acts. He emphasised unity and social respect for those who shaped India’s constitutional values.
Vision of a Viksit Bharat
He concluded with a powerful call:
“Let us all resolve to stand with those who stand with us. Let’s build a Viksit Bharat, together.”
