Mangaluru — Dakshina Kannada District In-charge Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has urged religious leaders from temples, mosques, and churches to use their platforms to spread messages of peace and harmony. Speaking at the 79th Independence Day celebrations at Nehru Maidan, he said true development is possible only through unity.
The minister, after hoisting the national flag, emphasised that art, theatre, and Yakshagana artistes should focus on promoting harmony through their work. He called on citizens to join hands for the district’s all-round progress, leaving no space for violence. Paying homage to freedom fighters, he reminded that it is every Indian’s responsibility to honour their sacrifices.
Highlighting the need for patriotism, he said India’s youth should draw inspiration from the ideals of those who fought for independence. He stressed that building a strong, progressive nation requires a deep sense of Indian identity, along with pride in the country’s heritage, spiritual values, and cultural richness.
Rao assured that law enforcement agencies have full authority to maintain order without external influence. Meetings with community leaders, elected representatives, and officials have been held to analyse the causes of communal issues, leading to several agreed-upon preventive steps.
The event featured a grand parade by the police, armed reserve, KSRP, NCC, Scouts and Guides, and Bharat Seva Dal students.
Dignitaries present included MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta, MLA Vedavyas Kamath, MLC Ivan D’Souza, former MLA Harish Kumar, Deputy Commissioner Darshan H.V., City Police Commissioner Sudhir Kumar Reddy, IGP Amit Singh, SP Dr. Arun Kumar, and ZP CEO Vinayak Naravade.