Imphal, October 02 2010: To follow the ideology of non-violence advocated by Mahatma Gandhi will be a true tribute paid to the "Father of the Nation" said Chief Minister, O Ibobi speaking at the state level observation of National Cleanliness Day at GM Hall, Imphal.

As done in other parts of the country, the state also observed the 141st birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi as National Cleanliness Day which was marked by offering of floral tributes to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at GM Hall.

The day was also observed as International Day of Non-Violence by various civil organizations.

Speaking as chief guest in the state level function held at GM hall Chief Minister called upon the people to shun violence and to live in harmony keeping behind the differences of caste creed and colour.

Only when "we follow the path followed by Bapuji can we live in harmony and peace.

Development will then come to the state and in the region," he said.

He also appealed to the people not to look down upon the weaker and poorer sections of the society so as to pay true homage to the father of the nation.

Only when the path followed by Gandhiji of truth, non-violence, love, friendship and socialism exists as the basis, will peace exist in the world, he said.

Chief Minister also urged the people to keep neat and clean the surrounding areas for a healthy living.

The state level function marked by offering of floral tributes to Gandhiji by the common people was led by Chief Minister.

Cabinet ministers, MLAs both ruling and opposition, top officials of the government, etc.

also attended the function.

It was opened with the hymn of Gandhiji "Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram" presented by artistes of Bal Mukunda Dev Government Music College.

The day was also observed as International Non-Violence Day at State Guest House under the aegis of 'Organising Committee International Non-Violence Day Manipur' in which many resource persons spoke on the works and ideology of Mahatma Gandhi.

Resource person, advocate Khaidem Mani observed that both state and non-state actors are indulging in violent activities as a means to achieve their goals.

Underground groups in their struggle to achieve their ends resort to violence.

The same is also true for the security forces.

He said that in this trouble torn state, the common people are the unfortunate victims of the armed conflict between insurgents and government.

Security forces and police have often killed innocent people in fake encounters in the name of maintaining law and order and safeguarding life and property of the general public.

Resorting to violence to achieve one's ends is not an acceptable option.

People should not allow such acts to continue further, he said.

Former member, Manipur Human Rights Commission, RK Rajendra recalled that the United Nations declared the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi as "International Non-Violence Day" recognizing the unique non-violent struggle that he chose to achieve India's independence from the British.

As a state in Indian union, the conflict situation of the state too should be resolved through non-violence.

Central as well state government need to find a way out a way in this regard, he urged.

Presidents of Senior Citizens for Society Manipur N Binoy, URICC M Ibohal, Mahila Kalyan Samiti M Purnima and Sarbodaya Mitra Mandal Prof L Sadananda also spoke on the occasion which was followed by a panel discussion moderated by L Lalit.

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