Minister Somendra Tomar Pays Tribute to 1857 Freedom Icon Kotwal Dhan Singh Gurjar on Kranti Diwas in Meerut
Meerut | May 10, 2025
Meerut, Uttar Pradesh – On the occasion of Kranti Diwas, Uttar Pradesh’s Minister of State for Energy, Dr. Somendra Tomar, paid a heartfelt tribute to Amar Shaheed Kotwal Dhan Singh Gurjar, one of the earliest heroes of India’s 1857 First War of Independence. The floral tribute was offered at the Shaheed Smarak, Saket Chauraha, located in the premises of Sadar Bazar Police Station, where Dhan Singh Gurjar once served as Kotwal.
In his address, Dr. Tomar reflected on the significance of Meerut in India’s struggle for freedom, saying:
“The spark of the 1857 revolution ignited from Meerut’s soil, and Kotwal Dhan Singh Gurjar was its first torchbearer. His sacrifice is the foundation stone of our nation’s freedom story.”
A Hero Immortalised in Memory and Institutions
As part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to eternalize Gurjar’s sacrifice, Dr. Tomar highlighted several initiatives:
- The Police Training Centre in Meerut has been officially renamed “Amar Shaheed Kotwal Dhan Singh Gurjar Police Training Centre”.
- A grand statue of Gurjar has been installed at the training centre to honour his contribution.
- His life story and heroic sacrifice have now been incorporated into the training curriculum for police trainees.
- A monumental statue at Shaheed Smarak, visible to thousands daily, ensures his legacy continues to inspire generations.
A Legacy of Patriotism and Courage
Describing Dhan Singh Gurjar as a symbol of courage, patriotism, and supreme sacrifice, Dr. Tomar emphasized that his remembrance is not merely ceremonial but a call to duty for every citizen.
“Remembering Kotwal Dhan Singh Gurjar isn’t just about honouring the past—it’s about shaping our future with responsibility and patriotism,” Dr. Tomar stated.
The event drew police officials, local dignitaries, students, and citizens who gathered to pay respects to a forgotten yet pivotal figure in India’s freedom movement.
This solemn occasion reinforced Meerut’s proud status as the cradle of India’s first rebellion, and Kotwal Dhan Singh Gurjar as its unsung hero, whose name is now etched in the conscience of the state and its institutions.
