‘Mahatma Gandhi was a real ‘Karmayogi’, an apostle of truth and non-violence, a symbol of indomitable power of the soul that stood for the cause of the down-trodden and oppressed not only in India but also in other parts of the world’, she asserted.

The Governor also appealed to the present generation to imbibe the virtue of non-violence, tolerance and humanism from the life of Mahatma Gandhi so that it will usher in a new era of hope and prosperity. She also urged all to resolve to maintain cleanliness as a regular feature to make the National Cleanliness Day meaningful.

While extending his wishes, Chief Minister N Biren said that Gandhi was an apostle of non-violence, equality, harmonious co-existence, mutual respect and religious tolerance, adding that his ideals have eternal value and his philosophy of ‘Ahimsa’ is more relevant in today’s world.

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The CM stated that he is remembered most for his non-violent means of working for social justice, his acceptance of all faiths, and his ability to bring conflicting groups together. Noting the disturbing phase presently witnessed in the state’s history, he lamented that disruptive forces both from within and from outside, are resorting to the most heinous of violent acts with the intent of disrupting the State’s fabric of peace and harmony, unity and diversity.

Tribes and communities have been pitted against each other by making use of deceit and dishonest narratives of history and events, he asserted. CM Biren added that the events of the past many months are an awakening for all of us and said the intent and acts of divisive forces must make each of us realise the need for trust and oneness in defeating these forces through dialogue and non-violent means.

He also urged the people to remember Gandhi’s thoughts and actions in facing and addressing the challenges that confront us. Further, he appealed to refrain from all forms of violence while facing the challenges.