Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday suggested that the word “ahimsa” (non-violence) be added to the Preamble to the Indian constitution as the “greatest tribute” to Mahatma Gandhi, as the nation plans to celebrate his 150th birth anniversary.
“I believe the greatest tribute India could pay Gandhiji on his 150th anniversary is to include the ‘uniquely’ Indian ideal of ahimsa, of non-violence, in the Preamble of India’s constitution,” Mr. Patnaik said. “This will ensure that future generations, not just Indians but people around the world, will be reminded of the profound truth of this principle.”
He made this suggestion here at the first meeting of the National Committee for Commemoration of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, which was chaired by President Ramnath Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhawan.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, key Union ministers, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, senior BJP leader L.K. Advani and a host of Chief Ministers of states attended this meet.
“Rashtrapati Ji chaired the first meeting of the National Committee for Commemoration of 150th Birth Anniversary of Bapu. The meeting witnessed wide-scale participation, with eminent leaders, CMs, citizens from various walks of life and people from overseas taking an active part,” Mr. Modi tweeted. “Mahatma Gandhi gave his life for the nation. He led a movement due to which our generations can breathe the air of freedom and have the privilege of living in a vibrant democracy. We should ensure more and more people across the world know about Bapu’s greatness.”