Imphal, August 20: Manipur joined in observing the Sadbhavana Diwas commemorating the 72nd Birth Anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India.
A state level function was organized at the Banquet Hall of 1st battalion Manipur Rifles here today.
Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh speaking on the occasion appealed to all to take pledge to live harmoniously and peacefully to strengthen the unity & integrity of the country.
Chief Minister pointed out that the Diwas is observed to remember and pay our respect to Rajiv Gandhi who sacrificed his life for safeguarding the unity and integrity of India. Describing Rajiv Gandhi as a dynamic Prime Minister he said Rajiv Gandhi was a leader who brought a new revolution in the country, a leader who banned political defection by introducing Anti Defection Bill in the parliament and the one who lowered the voting age from 21 to 18 among others. Stating that the age old tradition of living together peacefully and harmoniously in the country i.e. unity in diversity is being disturbed today by the enmity and hatred amongst different communities and by the act of violence.
He maintained that in view of such a situation the observation of the Sadbhavana Diwas gains more significance.
In his presidential speech, Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam recalled Rajiv Gandhi as a leader who transformed India into the Information and Technology and education sector and who brought Punjab Accord, Assam Accord and Mizo Accord through peaceful dialogue. Gaikhangam who holds home portfolio also said Rajiv’s good quality was recognised internationally. To fulfill his dream of a peaceful and developed India, let us rededicate ourselves for the unity and integrity of India, he appealed.
Later, a Sadbhavana Pledge was also administered by the Chief Minister during the function which was attended by Ministers, MLAs, Chief Secretary O Nabakishore, DGP Manipur LM Khaute and other top officials of civil and police.
