Gita Press, Gorakhpur, one of the world’s largest publishers, has refused to accept the Rs 1 crore cash reward for the Gandhi Peace Prize for 2021 amid a controversy over being picked for the honour.
The jury headed by Prime Minister Modi unanimously decided to select Gita Press as the recipient of the award on Sunday. “I congratulate Gita Press, Gorakhpur on being conferred the Gandhi Peace Prize 2021. They have done commendable work over the last 100 years towards furthering social and cultural transformations among the people. @GitaPress,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted on Sunday.
The publisher today said that it would only accept the citation, suggesting that the government should spend the cash reward amount elsewhere. The award also includes a plaque and an exquisite traditional handicraft/handloom item.
The Congress severely criticised the decision to honor Gita Press, calling it a “travesty” and “like awarding Savarkar and Godse”.
“The Gandhi Peace Prize for 2021 has been conferred on the Gita Press at Gorakhpur which is celebrating its centenary this year.”