Guwahati, Oct 3 (IANS) Assam will soon have a university to teach the non-violence principles of Mahatma Gandhi, Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said Wednesday.
The chief minister was interacting with reporters on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary.
Gogoi said the proposed university would promote peace and harmony by finding ways to resolve growing conflicts by upholding the teachings and profound philosophy of Gandhiji among all sections of the people.
The chief minister, who unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi carved by acclaimed sculptor Dilip Sarma and offered floral tributes in the Circuit House premises, said the government would take up a slew of initiatives aimed at disseminating Gandhiji’s valuable philosophy, principles and beliefs in non-violence through proper education and public awareness.
“Plans are on the anvil for installing a statue of Gandhiji in every district and to make a film on him to inspire and motivate our youths,” he added.
“Throughout his entire life Mahatma Gandhi propagated brotherhood feelings, tolerance and love for fellow beings by transcending the barriers of caste, creed or religion. His teachings are relevant for all times to come. The university would propagate his ideals and philosophy among the young generation to promote peace and harmony. It would also carry out research with a view to resolving conflicts,” said Gogoi.
He said the relevance of Gandhiji’s teachings is not only being felt in India but the world over. “At a time when there are conflicts all-around with terrorism rearing its ugly head, the world has realised the importance of Gandhiji’s teachings,” he said, adding, “If we want to bring an end to violence and save the world or for that matter mankind, we have to follow in the footsteps of Gandhiji by adopting ‘ahimsa’ or that of non-violence.”
“Gandhiji worked relentlessly and selflessly for the marginalised sections of society,” he said adding he (Gandhiji) was the epitome of love, labour and dignity for the multitudes who plunged headlong into the freedom movement at his clarion call to free the country from the yoke of slavery.
He said it was Gandhiji who instilled into the masses, the young and old alike, the moral courage which eventually culminated in the freedom of the country from imperialist rule.
“Unlike many armed struggles as witnessed in the annals of history, Gandhiji’s movement in South Africa and India was unique in the sense that it advocated non-violence as the greatest weapon.”