Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is set to unveil a 30-foot statue of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh at the Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Mohali, on September 28, to mark the birth anniversary of the legendary freedom fighter. The statue, made of gunmetal, is expected to stand as a symbol of inspiration for generations to come, reminding all visitors of the extraordinary contributions and sacrifices made by Bhagat Singh in the fight for India’s independence.

Mann, during a meeting on Thursday with officials from the Public Works Department (PWD), reviewed the ongoing work for the statue’s installation. He emphasized that this tribute not only honours Bhagat Singh’s bravery but also aims to instill a sense of patriotism among the youth. “This statue will serve as a catalyst to perpetuate the legacy of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, motivating younger generations to selflessly serve the nation,” Mann said.

The Mohali International Airport was officially renamed in honour of Shaheed Bhagat Singh last year, following years of debate and a legal dispute between the governments of Punjab and Haryana over its naming. The airport, which serves travelers from various northern states including Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu and Kashmir, will now be home to this impressive statue, further cementing Bhagat Singh’s place in the hearts and minds of the people.

The Chief Minister reflected on the long-standing demand to name the airport after the martyr, which dates back to 2007 during Bhagat Singh’s birth centenary celebrations. At the time, Punjab had pushed for the naming of the airport in Bhagat Singh’s honour, but Haryana expressed a preference for naming it after its leader, Mangal Sen. The issue escalated to the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which advised both state governments to resolve the matter through dialogue.

After multiple discussions, an agreement was finally reached in August 2022, during a meeting between Mann and Haryana Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala. Both states consented to name the airport after Bhagat Singh, honouring his legacy as one of India’s most revered freedom fighters.

Speaking about Bhagat Singh’s ideology, Mann said: “His philosophy of socialism and fight against injustice is as relevant today as it was during the freedom struggle. The statue will remind visitors of his supreme sacrifice and inspire them to follow his ideals.”

Punjab Government’s decision to erect Bhagat Singh’s statue at such a prominent location aligned with its broader mission to ensure that the ideals of the country’s freedom fighters continue to resonate with future generations. By naming airports, universities, and institutions after iconic martyrs, Mann believed that the country can keep their legacies alive and inspire youth to contribute to the nation's progress with unwavering dedication.

Mann reiterated the government’s commitment to realizing Bhagat Singh’s dream of a just and equitable society. “We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that Bhagat Singh’s legacy lives on in the hearts of Punjabis and people across the country,” he said, urging all to take inspiration from the young martyr’s life and philosophy.