Thiruvananthapuram | Leaders in Kerala on Saturday greeted people on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, recalling the sacrifices of freedom fighters and calling for protection of democratic and secular values.
Union Minister Suresh Gopi, in a message posted on Facebook, said, "With immense pride in our freedom and love for our motherland, I wish every Indian a very Happy Independence Day!"
"On this day, we remember with gratitude and respect the brave souls whose sacrifices secured our freedom. Let us uphold the values of our independence and move forward together, united in our resolve to build a stronger, prosperous and developed India. Jai Hind," he said.
Former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the country had completed 79 years of independence after breaking the chains of imperialism and that the entry into the 80th Independence Day should not be reduced to merely a celebration.
He said the occasion should also be used for serious introspection on the political and social situation in contemporary India.
"Freedom of expression and pluralism guaranteed by the Constitution are facing major challenges today. Deliberate attempts are being made around us to weaken the strength of 'unity in diversity' and divide people in the name of caste and religion," Vijayan said.
He said the day should be used to declare that communalism had no place in the country and that democratic and secular values would be protected.
"Memories of the struggles we waged for freedom will give us the strength to stand together to address basic issues such as unemployment, price rise and growing economic inequality and to end exploitation," he said.
The freedom fighters had dreamed of an India where all citizens enjoyed equal justice and freedom, rather than a country belonging to any particular section, he said.
"Protecting democratic values from extra-constitutional interventions is the biggest responsibility that this period demands of us. Let us come together to break down the walls of hatred and build an India filled with humanity and fraternity," Vijayan said.
State Forest Minister Shibu Baby John said Independence Day was not merely a historical reminder of the day foreign powers were driven out, but also a constant reminder to support one another and stand united.
Kerala leaders greet people on Independence Day"This is a land that has overcome disasters and challenges and shown great examples of humanity. True freedom lies in preserving love and fraternity beyond caste and religious considerations," he said.
Higher Education Minister Roji M John recalled former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's historic "Tryst with Destiny" speech, describing it as one of the greatest speeches of the 20th century.
He said Nehru's speech represented the suffering, tears, oppression and struggles endured by the people under colonial rule and their dream of an independent nation.
Nehru had declared India's independence with confidence at a time when the country was facing enormous challenges, including the deep wounds of Partition, a shattered economy, poverty, starvation and the difficult task of integrating hundreds of princely states, Roji said.
"The foundation of the democracy and freedom we enjoy today was built after overcoming those crises and bloodshed. Our forefathers had to pay a heavy price to keep this vast country, diverse in languages, cultures and religions, united as one India," he said.
He said India's diversity was its wealth and called for a commitment to preserve it, while expressing hope that the Constitution would guide the country forward.
KPCC president and Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph paid tribute to the memories of the brave martyrs and freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for India's independence.
"Let us join hands to build a new India filled with light, development and equality, driving away darkness," he said.
BJP state president and Nemom MLA Rajeev Chandrasekhar said the country was celebrating 80 years of independence and 150 years of Vande Mataram.
"With the unwavering commitment that 'my first priority is my country', we once again reaffirm the commitment of a patriotic people to build a strong, self-reliant, prosperous and developed India," he said.
Chandrasekhar said the country was moving towards realising the dream by drawing on the energy of its youth and the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Chief Minister V D Satheesan hoists the national flag at the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
