Uphold Constitution, reject communalism: Kerala CM's Independence Day call

Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Saturday called upon citizens to become guardians of a democracy rooted in open-mindedness, tolerance, and constitutional values, while warning against the dangers of communalism. Addressing the state after hoisting the national flag at the Independence Day celebrations at Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, he said democracy is not about creating "a single type of human being in a monoculture plantation" or nurturing one language, one belief, and one lifestyle.

Mr. Satheesan emphasised that democracy is also not about creating "islets of hatred and darkness of communalism that fear anything different." He urged people to become "guardians and fighters of a strong democracy founded on open-mindedness, tolerance, debate, self-correction and innovation," describing this as the biggest salute to the heroes of India's freedom struggle, including Mahatma Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Gopal Krishna Gokhale.

Notably, the song Vande Mataram was not played at the function, in accordance with the direction of the Union government. The Chief Minister did not comment on this during his address.

Referring to an alleged incident in Uttarakhand, where a purification ritual was reportedly performed by right-wing groups at a rally venue after a senior Congress leader addressed a gathering there, Mr. Satheesan said even a prominent national leader who had spent decades in politics and held constitutional positions was being insulted on grounds of caste and untouchability. He wondered what message such incidents send to the country, noting that India had come a long way and should not return to those "dark times."

"If such attempts are made, it is our duty and responsibility to oppose them to the hilt. Each of us must work with utmost care and caution to protect our Constitution and the fundamental principles it guarantees," he said. He stressed that this is the time to stand together, without compromise, for constitutional principles and the unity, integrity, and secularism of India.

Mr. Satheesan began his address by remembering those who lost their lives in the recent landslips and floods in the state. He called upon people to pledge themselves to building "a new-era Kerala," stressing the need to move forward with compassion, tolerance, constitutional values, and progressive development. He also highlighted the need for a development model that is in harmony with nature and takes climate change into account.

"We must move forward together, shoulder to shoulder, giving up caste, religious and gender discrimination, political blindness and hatred. This should be our pledge on this sacred dawn of independence," he said.

The Chief Minister noted that Kerala has emerged as a model for the country in education, healthcare, secularism, literacy, tolerance, and political consciousness. He said efforts to build a new-era Kerala should uphold these achievements, and that secularism, democratic consciousness, and equality are the state's strengths and pillars. "Let us pledge on this Independence Day that we will not compromise on them," he added.

Earlier, the Chief Minister reviewed the parade by various contingents and received the salute from marching personnel of the police, NCC, NSS, Bharat Scouts and Guides, and Student Police Cadets. He also distributed police and bravery awards during the function.