Mr. Barnala, who was the chief guest at the "32nd Id Milan Party" organised by the Committee of Hosts (CoH), stressed the need for following a moral and spiritual life, " enjoined by all religions."

A secular State was established in India as the framers of the Constitution had understood the true spirit of all religions. "It means that fanaticism is abandoned and a harmonious way of life in a spirit of goodwill and acceptance is imbibed by the citizens," he said.

Injustice to poor

Islam protested against injustice to the poor and pleaded for social relief and kindness to all. For the Prophet, religion was an effort to know the truth and live it, the Governor said.

Mr. Barnala appreciated the endeavour of the CoH in organising the Id Milan party with a view to promoting goodwill among people. He presented cheques to charitable institutions run by people belonging to different religions.

Finance Minister K. Anbazhagan, who released a booklet on Ramzan, said many revolutionary and socialist ideas had their roots in Islam. Teachings of Tamil savant Thiruvalluvar were akin to the teachings of Islam, he added. The State Government would continue to safeguard the interests of the minority communities, he said.

Though it had been dubbed a "minority Government," it enjoyed a majority [in the Assembly].

Prince of Arcot Nawab Mohammed Abdul Ali said the party was a symbol of harmony and peace. Describing it as a solemn occasion, he said Iftar parties should not be politicised. He commended the State Government and the Centre for resorting to various measures for the welfare of the minorities.

S.K. Khadri, convenor of the CoH, spoke on the significance of the Id Milan party. CoH member G.S.M.P. Khadri proposed the vote of thanks.

Source: The Hindu