Team Herald
MARGAO: On Wednesday, a group of citizens in Margao came together to honour the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri by pledging to uphold their principles.
The event featured speeches highlighting the leaders’ commitment to non-violence, simplicity, and service to the nation. Participants engaged in activities that reflected the values of truth and integrity championed by Gandhi and Shastri. The function at the Congress Margao block office highlighted the profound impact of Mahatma Gandhi, who championed Ahimsa (non-violence) and tolerance. Savio Coutinho along with ex Councillor Radha Kavlekar, Adv Snehal Onskar, Lincoln Gomes, Anwar Naroo, Clifford Dias, Lalan Parsekar, Aziz Shah, Carmo Dias, Mathin Karol, Pamela Faleiro, Agnelo Rodrigues, Damodar Onskar, Ibrahim Thakkar, Anwar Faria, Menino Crasto and others paid floral tributes to the two great leaders.
Coutinho urged the people of Goa to remain vigilant against attempts by the BJP to sow division along religious lines. “The ruling BJP government has observed how all Goans are uniting, regardless of their religion or status, to protect Goa from the widespread destruction of our environment and ecology,” he stated. “In response, they have begun to sow seeds of hatred along religious lines to distract the public and deflect the backlash they are facing.” He urged citizens to remain vigilant against these divisive tactics and to stay focused on their shared commitment to preserving Goa’s natural heritage. “We must not allow ourselves to be manipulated; our strength lies in our unity,” he emphasised. “It’s crucial that we remain calm and discerning, not allowing ourselves to be drawn into unnecessary conflict.
If India, being so diverse could stand united all these years, in spite of various attempts to divide the country on religious lines, it is only on account of the teachings of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shashtriji who spent their entire life preaching and practicing tolerance and peace”, said Coutinho.