Non-violence more powerful tool than nuke bomb: Doreswamy

Freedom fighter rues erosion of human values in society

Non-violence is the most powerful weapon to fight against any odds in the nation, veteran freedom fighter H S Doreswamy has said.

Addressing the gathering during the 68th ‘Sarvodaya Day’, organised by the Gandhi Study Centre of the University of Mysore (UoM) and Mahajana’s College, to pay tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, Doreswamy said, “During freedom struggle, the country had no powerful weapons to fight against the British. We got Independence peacefully. Non-violence is more powerful than a nuclear bomb.”

Taking exception to violence and the people speaking against Gandhi, Doreswamy said that people should understand the effects of violence and future of the nation. Without taking any names, he said, “A Padma awardee has been making loose comments against Gandhi and B R Ambedkar. He must think about the nation before making any comments. Without understanding Gandhian principles and thoughts, no one should oppose the Father of the Nation. Even Gandhi was a human being, he would have committed a few mistakes, but defaming him is not acceptable.”

Speaking about the present political system and politicians, Doreswamy said that many politicians were not concerned about the development of the nation and the people. “We are electing such people as our representatives and it is a disaster for the nation. They assume that with money power they can purchase anything. With politicians indulging in blame game, the Legislative Assembly and Parliament have turned noisy, without any results.”

“Today, politicians are ruining society. No one needs Gandhian theories and principles. Youths are taking a ‘U’ turn on Gandhian philosophies. Money, which was introduced for business, is ruling humankind. It is high time we sensitise our youth about Gandhi’s philosophies and inculcate human values among them,” Doreswamy said.

After inaugurating the programme, UoM Vice-Chancellor K S Rangappa said, “The intention of the day is to spread the values and principles of Gandhi to society. The Gandhian principles — Sarvodaya and Antyodaya, have inspired many people. Even the UoM has adopted Gandhian principles.”

UoM Registrar C Basavaraju, Mahajana’s College Gandhi Studies Centre convener H R Thimmegowda, UoM Gandhi Study Centre Director S Shivarajappa and others were present.