Govt Directs Officials to Take Sadbhavana Diwas Pledge

Quick Summary

• Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar’s directive to universities in Kerala to observe ‘Partition horror day’ on August 14 has sparked controversy.
• Kerala State government plans to observe Sadbhavana Diwas (Communal harmony day) on August 20, commemorating former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s birth anniversary.
• District Collectors and department heads have been instructed by the General Administration Department (GAD) to organize a pledge-taking ceremony at 11 a.m., focusing on themes of national integration and communal harmony.
• The pledge reads: “I solemnly pledge to work with dedication for the unity and harmony of all sections of the people of India, without any consideration of community, religion, region, or language. I pledge never to resort to violence and to resolve all differences through dialog and othre constitutional means.”
• Sadbhavana Diwas has been observed annually since 1992 with similar themes but does not require student participation in pledges specifically tied to Rajiv Gandhi’s birth anniversary this year.
• Chief Minister pinarayi Vijayan criticized the ‘Partition horror day’ directive as “unconstitutional and unacceptable.”

Indian Opinion Analysis

The decision by Kerala’s government reflects its prioritization of promoting social harmony amid growing concerns about divisive narratives. Observing Sadbhavana Diwas aligns with longstanding practices fostering national integration but is notable for distancing itself from controversies surrounding ‘Partition horror day.’ Initiatives like these help support peaceful coexistence within India’s diverse societal fabric. However, differing interpretations between state administration and Raj bhavan underscore tensions regarding how ancient events should be commemorated-a recurring challenge given India’s pluralistic nature.

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