Struggle for justice began in Vaikom: Stalin

KOTTAYAM: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said that Vaikom Satyagraha was the biggest struggle not only in the history of Kerala but also in the history of India. He was speaking at the inaugural function of the centenary celebrations of Vaikom Satyagraha. Stalin, who began his speech by speaking in Malayalam, also expressed his gratitude on behalf of the people of Tamil Nadu for organizing the event.

"Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had earlier invited me to the event. Even though we are two in body, both Pinarayi and I are one in thinking. Although Vaikom is in Kerala, it is also very popular in Tamil Nadu. Remembering all those who led the Vaikom Satyagraha. It was a struggle fought by Periyar from Tamil Nadu and TK Madhavan from Kerala," Stalin said.

"Vaikom Satyagraha is the lamp of the era. It was a struggle that became a guide for India. However, efforts are being made to take the country back to the old days. It is time for Kerala and Tamil Nadu to fight together against this. Drawing energy from the Vaikom satyagraha, protests were held in places like Trichy, Madurai, Suchindram and Tirumalai against the practice of untouchability. A fund will be allocated to rebuild Periyar's monument at Vaikam. The participation of Dravida Kazhagam leaders along with the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi during the golden jubilee celebrations of Vaikam Satyagraha is proof of the unbroken bond between Kerala and Tamil Nadu," Stalin said.