Row over 1857 uprising in Parliament

WAR OVER INDEPENDENCE WAR: Politicians are protesting, saying that the uprising was not the first war for Hindustan.

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New Delhi: The country is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the First War of Independence on Thursday.

A function was organised in the Central Hall of Parliament which included a musical tribute to the martyrs.

Another event commemorating the day will also be held in the Capital on Thursday evening. A rally of around 30,000 youths, that began from Meerut on May 7 is also set to enter the Capital on Thursday.

The rally will culminate in a grand celebration at the historic Red Fort on Friday. Top leaders from across the political spectrum are to attend the event.

However, even a national event is not without controversies and one has broken out in Parliament over the Revolt of 1857.

Some politicians are protesting, saying that the uprising was certainly not the first war for Hindustan.

"Calling the uprising the first war of independence is disrespectful to those who fought in the Anglo Sikh war of 1845," said Shiromani Akali Dal leader, Tarlochan Singh.

Those of the saffron school, meanwhile, too had their share of differences. They felt that the Congress was monopolising the function.

Senior journalist and Rajya Sabha member Chandan Mitra said that the contribution of parties other than the Congress to the independence struggle should not be overlooked.