‘Stand together to drive away religious fundamentalism’, Pinarayi Vijayan on Independence Day

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday asked the people of the state to be watchful against fundamentalists and sought public support to stand against subversive thoughts and activities.

"I am using this occasion to remind people to be careful of some who turn spirituality into false spirituality and use religion injected with communal overtures. This has to be carefully watched," the Chief Minister said during his first Independence Day address here since assuming office.

Vijayan, who was was sworn in May, took the salute at the Central Stadium here.

He also asked parents and elders to ensure that students who go to educational institutions and religious places do not take a wrong route by indulging in undesirable activities like religious fundamentalism.

"People should support the efforts of the state government which is doing everything possible to see that misguided elements, who in the name of religion corrupt the minds of people in our society, are taken to task. On this Independence Day, let us all take a pledge that we will all stand together to drive away religious fundamentalism," said Vijayan.

Vijayan also gave away awards and medals to police and civil officials.

The chief minister's cabinet colleagues took the salute and hoisted the tricolour at all the 13 district headquarters of the state.

Across the state, many state and central government offices also witnessed the ceremonial hoisting of the national flag.