State observes Rashtriya Ekta Diwas

Pothashang News Service

Imphal, October 31:Governor Dr. Najma Heptulla and chief Mminister Nonthombam Biren Singh today flagged off ‘Run for Unity’, from Khuman Lampak Main Stadium which was organised as part of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) in commemoration with the 142^nd birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Najma said India is proud of its diverse communities and religion, and this diversity became a unity because of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.Stating that India comprised of numerous princely states earlier, it was because of the Iron Man of India Sardar Patel, India became a unified country. As such, it is appropriate to celebrate his birth anniversary as the National Unity Day, added the governor.

She urged the public to take a pledge to follow the ideals and path of these freedom fighters.

Biren Singh remembered Sardar Patel as a farsighted leader, who could envision India’s potential of emerging as a leading country in the world through its unity in diversity. Like India, Manipur would fall apart if its diverse communities are not unified, added Biren Singh.

Raising unity slogan alone would not serve any purpose at this juncture. People should not only put in serious efforts to maintain harmony but also shun all forms of activity which may disturb unity and integrity of the State, said the chief minister. He urged the people to give unity and harmony a chance.

Stating that peace parleys had begun even in Jammu and Kashmir, the Chief Minister urged all concerned to resolve all the differences and discords through talks. “We should learn to appreciate those who wish to join us, and we should also not forget to ask the reason to those who try to leave us”., said the chief minister.

Around 600 participants took part in the run.

The national day for unity was also observed at the Deputy Commissioner’s office complex in Chandel district. All the district level officers, police, Manipur rifles, Assam Rifles, tribe and student leaders, chiefs and leaders from different CSOs and students participated in the function and take a pledge to preserve the unity, integrity and security of the nation and to strive hard to spread the message of peace among the people.