The vandalism of the Gandhi statue at the Mahatma Memorial Cultural Centre, Ramanthali, Payyannur, is an act that deserves the strongest condemnation. In response to this deeply unfortunate incident, activists of the People’s Movement for Peace, an organisation committed to the values of harmony and non-violence, visited the site and organised a strong protest meeting expressing collective outrage and concern. The protest meeting was held under the chairmanship of P. Satheesh Kumar and was inaugurated by noted social activist Karayil Sukumaran. Speakers at the meeting included Fr. Ditto, V. V. Unnikrishnan, P. V. Surendran, K. M. Thampan, K. V. Raghavan, C. V. Rajagopal, K. C. Satheeshan, N. A. V. Abdulla, Jaison, and O. Mohanan. All speakers strongly reaffirmed the relevance of peace, tolerance, and non-violence in the present social climate.

The destruction of the statue stands as a disturbing reflection of the growing culture of violence and intolerance in our society. Instead of addressing ideological differences through healthy dialogue and democratic engagement, there is an increasing tendency to resort to physical aggression and destruction of public property. Such actions pose a serious threat to democratic values, create an atmosphere of fear, and undermine social unity. This incident points to a dangerous erosion of the principle of peaceful coexistence, which is fundamental to a civilised society. Acts of vandalism directed against the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, amount to an assault on the very moral and ethical foundation of India. Gandhi is not merely a historical figure; he represents the enduring ideals of truth, non-violence, secularism, and justice upon which the nation was built. By attacking symbols associated with him, the perpetrators are in effect targeting India’s freedom struggle, its pluralistic values, and its democratic spirit. Such disrespect towards a globally revered leader is wholly unacceptable in a progressive society.

The meeting emphasised that it is the responsibility of every citizen to remain vigilant against forces attempting to erase Gandhian ideals from public consciousness. The speakers called for collective resistance, cutting across political, social, and ideological differences, against all such acts of hatred and vandalism. The protest organised by the People’s Movement for Peace was described as a necessary and timely intervention in defence of peace, love, and social harmony. The gathering concluded with the hope that sustained collective efforts like these will help instil the values of peace and tolerance in future generations, ensuring that the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi continue to guide society towards a more humane and inclusive future.