CM calls for resolving problems through nonviolence means
Source: Hueiyen News Service / NNN

Imphal, October 02 2013: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh today called upon all to resolve mutually all the problems and issue confronting the state through 'non-violence' means as propagated and practised used by Mahatma Gandhi.

Speaking on the occasion of National Cleanliness Day observance held at GM Hall here to mark the 144th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, Ibobi, who was the chief guest, said that only cleanliness and non-violence can bring real peace and prosperity.

He went on to say that the world has begun to follow and adopt Gandhiji's weapon of non-violence because violence yields nothing.

The '2nd October,' the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi is also being celebrated in many parts of the world as International Day of Non-violence after the UN has given recognition to his thought and philosophy.

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi at the 144th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi

Ibobi observed that fine thoughts come out of cleanliness and that Gandhi always wanted to be hygienic throughout his life as he said "Cleanliness is next to godliness." Gandhi succeeded in winning India's freedom from the hands of the colonial British by using non-violence as a great weapon to fight the latter, the Chief Minister mentioned, calling upon all to solve every problem and issue confronting the state through non-violence.

Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, who presided over the function, said that the entire international community now disagree with the old idea that fighting can solve problems and bring peace.

He said that now the world has chosen the path of non-violence, which is the greatest force, shouting slogans for peace after knowing that non-violence is the 'weapon of the strong' .

Gaikhangam further appealed to all to strive for peace, harmony and development by taking up the weapon of non-violence which Gandhiji once used successfully.

Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam and Social Welfare minister AK Mirabai cleanliness drive in and around the Khwairamband bazaar

Earlier, the Chief Minister and his Deputy led the people and dignitaries present on the occasion in paying floral tributes to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the Gandhi Memorial Hall.

The state level function was organised by the Home Department.

Cabinet ministers, Congress MLAs, Chief Secretary and other top officials from both civil and police were among the dignitaries.

Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) also marked the Gandhi Jayanti by observing the International Day of Non-violence at the Congress Bhavan where the Chief Minister, his Deputy, Congress ministers and MLAs and workers paid homage to Gandhi.

State Congress workers led by Deputy Chief Minister and MPCC president Gaikhangam, and Social Welfare minister AK Mirabai also carried out a cleanliness drive in and around the Khwairamband bazaar area marking the National Cleanliness Day.

The Organising Committee of International Day of Non-violence also marked the day 7th International Day of Non-violence at the Press Club here.

Padmashree and eminent Gandhian RK Jhalajit, M Ibohal, president United Religious Initiative Manipur Cooperation Circle and M Binoy, president, Senior Citizens for Society, who took part in the observation, paid respect to Gandhi on the occasion.