Guard India’s unity, secular values: Basheer

Public Works Minister P.K. Basheer called upon people to uphold constitutional values, secularism, and communal harmony while celebrating the 80th Independence Day here on Saturday (August 15).

Addressing the crowd at the MSP Parade Ground, the Minister said Independence Day was also an occasion to remember the sacrifices of freedom fighters and patriots.

He said India’s strength lies in its “unity in diversity”. People belonging to different religions, castes, and linguistic groups have remained united by their common identity as Indians. He urged people to remain vigilant against communalism and divisive tendencies and said protecting constitutional values, secularism, and communal harmony was the duty of every citizen.

Public Works Minister P.K. Basheer and officials saluting the national flag during the Independence Day celebrations at Malappuram on August 15.
| Photo Credit:
SAKEER HUSSAIN

The Minister also recalled the contribution of the country’s early leaders, including the first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, in building India after Independence.

He also paid tribute to Panakkad Pookkoya Thangal, Umarali Shihab Thangal, E.M.S. Namboodiripad, and M.P. Narayana Menon for their contributions to Malappuram’s freedom struggle and secular tradition.

Mr. Basheer called for stronger public participation in the fight against drug abuse. He said 6,500 cases had been registered and 7,500 people arrested since the launch of Operation Toofan against drug trafficking.

“Operation Toofan is not merely a police action but a fight for the younger generation,” he said.

The celebrations began with the Minister laying a wreath at the war memorial at the Civil Station. He later inspected the parade at the MSP ground.

Public Works Minister P.K. Basheer inspecting the Independence Day parade at the MSP Parade Ground at Malappuram on August 15.
| Photo Credit:
SAKEER HUSSAIN

Thirty-six platoons from the Police, Excise, Forest, Fire and Rescue, NCC, SPC, Scouts, Guides and Junior Red Cross took part in the parade. MSP Assistant Commandant T.K. Mohammed Basheer was the parade commander.

A procession by school students preceded the parade. AUP School, Malappuram, was selected as the best-performing school.

St. Gemma’s GHSS, Malappuram, won first place in the band display and also received a special award for leading the parade band. IGMMR School, Nilambur, received another special award.

MLAs T.V. Ibrahim and M. Rahmathulla, District Panchayat President P.A. Jabbar Haji, District Collector Vinay Goyal, District Police Chief Chaitra Theresa John and Malappuram municipal chairperson V. Rinisha were among those who attended the celebrations.