Amit Shah inaugurates 1857 martyrs memorial in Ambala

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday formally inaugurated the 'Shaheed Smarak' (Martyrs Memorial of the First War of Independence) in Ambala Cantonment. This memorial has been prepared in memory of the martyrs of the 1857 freedom struggle.

Addressing the event, the Home Minister said that the 1857 struggle was not just a rebellion but a war of independence, which started on May 10 from the land of Ambala and shook the foundations of the British rule. He said that the dream of a 'Viksit Bharat' can be fulfilled only due to the sacrifices of the country's martyrs.

This program was organized as part of Haryana's foundation day celebrations. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and other state cabinet ministers were also present on the occasion.

Built over an area of about 22 acres on the Delhi-Chandigarh National Highway, this memorial has been completed in eight years at a cost of approximately Rs 800 crore. The names of more than 700 martyrs have been engraved in golden letters in the memorial.

23 galleries depicting the 1857 uprising across the country have been built in this complex. Inside the museum, historical events have been presented through digital presentations, 360-degree projection and laser and sound show.

According to the administration, after the inauguration, this memorial will be opened for viewing by the general public and tourists from November 6. Earlier, the Home Minister had also participated in a BJP march in Karnal.

Key developments

• Martyrs memorial built in 22 acres at a cost of Rs 800 crore in Ambala
• Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated in the presence of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini
• Names of over 700 martyrs engraved in golden letters in the memorial
• Complex to be opened for public viewing from November 6