Rashtriya Lok Dal Celebrates Foundation Day, Pays Tribute to Former PM Charan Singh

On the occasion of Rashtriya Lok Dal’s (RLD) Foundation Day, Vinay Pradhan, Incharge of RLD in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasized the significance of the day for farmers, youth, women, and the marginalized communities across India.

He extended hearty greetings to all workers and supporters of the party, commemorating its establishment on September 11, 1996.

"Today marks an important day for those standing at the last rung of society. Rashtriya Lok Dal was founded with a vision to address the needs of every individual, especially the underprivileged," Pradhan stated.

Pradhan highlighted the legacy of Chaudhary Charan Singh, the former Prime Minister of India, in whose honor the day is celebrated. Singh, a prominent freedom fighter and farmer leader, was instrumental in shaping RLD's core values.

Singh, born on December 23, 1902, in Uttar Pradesh, is remembered for his extensive work in land and agricultural reforms. He served as the Prime Minister from July to August 1979 and was known as the "Champion of Farmers" for his advocacy of their rights and well-being. Singh also held the position of Deputy Prime Minister and Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and was a key member of the Janata Party and Bhartiya Kranti Dal. He was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2024 for his contributions to Indian politics and agriculture.

The RLD, led by Chaudhary Ajit Singh, Singh’s son, was founded as a breakaway faction of the Janata Dal. The party has since expanded its influence across Northern India and is part of the NDA government in central and state governments including Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.

Current party leadership includes Jayant Chaudhary, the National Chairman of RLD, who has been serving as the Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship since 2024. Jayant Chaudhary, born December 27, 1978, is also a Rajya Sabha member from Uttar Pradesh. He has been vocal against the 1894 land acquisition law and has led various agitations against unfair land acquisitions.

The Rashtriya Lok Dal continues to be a significant political force advocating for the rights and welfare of farmers and marginalized communities across India.