JK Guv, CM pay tributes to Mahatma Gandhi

Srinagar, Oct 2 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Governor Lt Gen (Retd) S K Sinha and Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad paid glowing tributes to 'Father of the Nation' on his 137th birth anniversary today.

In his message, Gen Sinha said Mahatma Gandhi was a unique star in the world firmament, committed to truth, universal brotherhood and high values.

''The message of the Mahatma for peace, non-violence and amity has increasing relevance in today's world that is threatened by unprecedented violence as also hatred and intolerance,'' he added.

The Governor said the struggle of Mahatma Gandhi against racism and suppression of downtrodden made him taller than the tallest leader of his time. His resolve and inflexible consistency for uplift of the poor, eradication of untouchability and strengthening communal amity influenced great men across the world, he added.

Gen Sinha said Mahatma Gandhi's unflinching faith in non-violence and truth has been a source of inspiration and strength for the people of this great nation. ''May the memory of this great saint of 20th century inspire all races in their odyssey towards liberty and justice and may his lofty ideals of mutual understanding prevail over violence,'' he added.

The Governor said the best tribute to the 'Father of the Nation' would be to strengthen the bonds of universal brotherhood and love and striving for a harmonious world.

In his message, Mr Azad said the great visionary of the world saw a ray of light in darkness in Jammu and Kashmir when the whole sub-continent was burning in sequel to communal frenzy.

New generation would have to be made aware that the Mahatma fought like a lion against communalism through his philosophy of secularism and brotherhood, he added.

''His martyrdom was a result of communal madness. Mahatma Gandhi always stood like a rock for cementing Hindu-Muslim-Sikh ties because he believed that the progress of a nation is possible only when all components of the society work together,'' Mr Azad said.

The Chief Minister said it was under the Mahatma's leadership that India got self-rule and fundamentals of democracy.

Mr Azad hoped that the people, particularly the youth, would adhere to the philosophy of the Father of Nation which will definitely usher the state towards peace and prosperity.

The Chief Minister said the day also marks the centenary of satyagraha which the Mahtama started from South Africa.

It was the first voice against apartheid and today the world has realised that dividing human beings in the name of state, creed, religion and colour divides humanity and breeds violence, he added.

Mr Azad said in order to check all forms of violence and terror in all parts of the world, application of Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy was the only solution.

UNI AG AK VC1555