Chaudhary Ranbir Singh was a true 'satyagrahi', says President Mukherjee

President Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday described freedom fighter Chaudhary Ranbir Singh as a true 'satyagrahi' and one of the architects of the Indian Constitution.

"Chaudhary Ranbir Singh was one of the architects of our Constitution. He took active part in the making of the Constitution as member of the Constituent Assembly. He was a true Satyagrahi," President Mukherjee said.

"The great Bhakra Project, which was dedicated to the nation by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, was completed during his tenure as Irrigation Minister of Punjab. Chaudhary Ranbir Singh worked whole-heartedly to improve the lot of the people," he added.

Speaking at the birth centenary celebrations of Chaudhary Ranbir Singh, the President further said that he was glad to be associated with the birth centenary celebrations of Chaudhary Ranbir Singh, veteran freedom fighter, devoted Gandhian and seasoned Parliamentarian.

Recalling his meeting with Chaudhary Ranbir Singh, President Mukherjee said the former became a member of the Rajya Sabha in 1972 and added that he had the good fortune of having interacted with him in the House. He said that this gave him an opportunity to discuss matters of national interest.

"Though Chaudhary Saheb retired from active politics on completion of his term in the Rajya Sabha in 1978, he remained involved in social work through a host of organizations. He also worked hard for the welfare of the freedom fighters. Due to his initiative, freedom fighters were given pension by the government," he said.