Kerala Minister Bindhu Krishna delivered the 80th Independence Day address at a district-level event in Kozhikode on Saturday, emphasizing that freedom is more than mere liberation from foreign rule, it is the ability to live without fear, express opinions freely, protect faith and culture, access equal opportunities, and live with dignity. Speaking at Captain Vikram Ground in West Hill, Krishna highlighted the importance of diversity and collective progress, stating that India’s strength lies in embracing differences and moving forward together. She reflected on the sacrifices made by leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, Subhas Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, Maulana Azad, and Dr B.R. Ambedkar, who fought for an India grounded in human dignity, equality, and justice. Krishna addressed contemporary challenges facing the nation, noting that despite achievements in science, technology, space, and infrastructure, India still grapples with unemployment, rising prices, economic inequality, environmental degradation, and the digital divide. She underscored the necessity of dissent in a functioning democracy, cautioning against hatred and division. Highlighting Kerala’s human development model, she argued that real progress is measured by the quality of life for ordinary citizens, not just physical infrastructure. She emphasized that women’s freedom, safe travel, financial independence, and self-determination, is a crucial indicator of societal advancement, citing initiatives like the Priyadarshini Free Travel Scheme for women and transgender individuals. The Minister also reiterated that employment with fair wages and safe working conditions is a fundamental right. During the event, she paid tribute to Kargil martyr Captain P.V. Vikram, after whom the venue is named, urging citizens to uphold constitutional values and foster an egalitarian society. Earlier in the day, Krishna hoisted the national flag and took the salute at a parade featuring 23 platoons from various police units, Excise, Fire and Rescue Services, Forest, NCC, Student Police Cadets, and band teams. District Collector M.S. Madhavikutty, Kozhikode City District Police Chief A.P. Shaukathali, and Rural District Police Chief Merin Joseph also took the salute. Parade Commander Jose George and Second-in-Command SI Praveen Raj K. led the procession. Following the parade, trophies were awarded to top-performing units, with DHQ Kozhikode City securing first place in the uniformed services category and BEM Girls Higher Secondary SPC winning in the children’s category. The ceremony concluded with the national anthem and cultural performances by school students. Among those present were Kozhikode Mayor O. Sadashivan, MPs M.K. Raghavan and Shafi Parambil, several MLAs, District Panchayat president Milli Mohan, Sub-Collector S. Gautham Raj, ADM Shareena K., public representatives, officials, and residents. Meanwhile, in Thiruvananthapuram, Chief Minister V D Satheesan urged citizens to commit to building a new-era Kerala, advocating for compassion, tolerance, constitutional values, and progressive development. At the Independence Day celebrations held at the Central Stadium, he hoisted the national flag and reviewed various platoons, receiving salutes from police, NCC, NSS, Bharat Scouts and Guides, and Student Police Cadets. Satheesan began his address by remembering those who lost their lives in recent landslides and floods, vowing the government would support affected families and implement a scientific system to manage flood disasters. He drew inspiration from Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s vision, calling on Kerala to pledge itself to a future defined by compassion, service, and tolerance. Satheesan also distributed police and bravery awards during the event.
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