DIPR
Imphal, Aug 20: State joins in observing the Sadbhavana Diwas commemorating the 72nd Birth Anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India.
Speaking as the Chief Guest in the function organised by Manipur Government at 1st MR Banquet Hall, Chief Minister Shri O. Ibobi Singh 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. Saying 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.
Speaking as the President of the function, Deputy Chief Minister recalled Rajiv Gandhi as a leader who transformed India in the IT and education sector and who brought Punjab Accord, Assam Accord and Mizo Accord through peaceful dialogue. He said Rajiv’s good quality was recognised internationally. To fulfil 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 in the function.
Ministers, MLAs, Chief Secretary, DGP and other top officials of civil and police were also present in the function.
