Congress Leader in the Lok Sabha M. Mallikarjun Kharge stressed upon the need to popularise Gandhian values, especially among the younger generation. He was addressing a gathering at SVP Circle on Sunday after flagging off the procession of a tableau representing Gandhian values. It was presented by the Department of Information and Public Relations to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
“Gandhian ideals have a universal significance. His principles of non-violence and Satyagraha have earned global recognition. We need to adopt these ideas in our lives. Unfortunately, there are efforts to malign the image of Gandhi and trigger violence in society. The need for defending and upholding Gandhian principles is being felt more these days. Peaceful coexistence of people with different religious and cultural backgrounds is what shaped India and we need to defend and continue the tradition,” he said.
Later, the tableau was taken in a procession to different localities in the city. It is scheduled to march to Chittapur on Monday. It will then go to Sedam and Chincholi. The tableau depicts 18 Satyagrahis led by Gandhi.
Earlier in the day, Mr. Kharge inaugurated the Gullabawadi community hall in the city, which was built at a cost of ₹42 lakh from the grants of Lok Sabha member and legislatures. Mr. Kharge announced that he would provide a sum of ₹5 lakh from his Lok Sabha member’s development funds to construct a compound wall around the building. “People from economically weaker sections often use these halls to conduct family functions. The authorities should see that reasonable and nominal fees are collected for the use of such halls,” he said. He also said that he would direct the Deputy Commissioner to provide land rights to those living in Gullabawadi area.
“The poor and Dalits should not deprive their children of education. The aim of education should not be limited to getting a government job alone. It should be a tool for acquiring knowledge and leading a life with dignity. These weaker sections of the society should never feel inferior to others. The deprived social groups and women need to wage a united struggle for their rights and social justice,” he said.
Former Minister G. Ramakrishna, MLC Amarnath Patil, former MLC K.B. Shanappa, Congress leader Jagadev Guttedar and others were present.
