'People and nation desire peace'; Chief Minister welcomes ceasefire announcement

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, stating that both the people and the nation desire peace. He described the decision to end the border conflict and move toward peace as a prudent and responsible one.

He added that while maintaining a firm stance against terrorist forces, the focus should remain on peace and the nation's progress. The state government had earlier decided to postpone its fourth anniversary celebrations in light of recent developments along the border. However, with the ceasefire now in effect, the Chief Minister has directed that the events proceed as originally scheduled from May 13.

District-level and state-level meetings, the Ente Keralam exhibition, and regional review sessions will all be held as planned from May 13 onwards. The rescheduled district-level meeting in Malappuram and other events that were to be held until May 13 will be assigned new dates, which will be announced later.