PATHANAMTHITTA: Renowned writer and lecturer Dr Sunil P. Ilayidom said that the current atmosphere in the country was that of the partition period. He was inaugurating the delegates' conference at the DYFI state conference.

"The Hindutva forces are transforming democracy into fascism of one religion, one leader and one language. They are using the power as well for this. The country is being reduced to one leader. Bills and policies are being implemented without discussion. Hindutva is strengthened under the guise of nationalism. Religious processions are being used as a weapon to demolish the houses and buildings of non-Muslims. Religious politicians subvert democracy and the concept of nationalism by exploiting the will of the majority. Religious divisive thoughts are aroused using the means such as love jihad, eating habits and family gatherings. Religiousisation and anti-feminism are also on the rise in the social life of Kerala," Sunil Ilayidom said.

"The feature of the constitution is that it allows differences in ideas and opinions. At the heart of democracy is the protection of the rights of minorities even while acting in accordance with the will of the majority. Protest and struggles are needed to protect democratic values," he added.

DYFI state president S. Satheesh presided over the function. DYFI all India president A.A. Rahim MP, Secretary Avoy Mukherjee, central committee members Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas, Chintha Jerome, Preethi Sekhar, CPM district secretary KP Udayabhanu and others participated.