THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday used the venue of 85th annual pilgrimage at Sivagiri Mutt to drive a political point, saying Muslim women are finally free from the practice of triple talaq.
Delivering his inaugural address via video-conferencing, for the first time after the Lok Sabha adopted the Bill making the practice illegal, he said after "years of suffering" Muslim women had finally found a way out to "free" themselves.
Mr Modi said when people were divided by caste, one of the greatest social reformers, Sree Narayana Guru, came forward with the messages like "freedom through education" and "become strong through organisation" where he fought for social justice.
The Guru believed that the poor, Dalits and backward communities could come to the forefront of the society only through education which has been proved right.
"The Guru tirelessly worked to ensure that education is achieved by the people in other states as well. He stands tall among other social reformers that the country has seen in last two centuries," he said.
He also urged that the ideals and philosophies of Guru should be taken into each one of our lives.
Modi heaped praise on the annual Sivagiri pilgrimage citing that its messages have been leading lakhs of pilgrims in its right direction.
He also said people should work towards the all-round development of the nation in 2018 even as his government pushes for reforms to tackle black money, corruption, benami properties and terrorism.
Calling for 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', he said the mantra for the New Year should be "reform, perform, transform."
He urged that people should be free from weaknesses and it is places like Sivagiri Mutt and similar organisations which helps people to stay grounded.
"I am extremely happy that I am able to start the New Year with the blessings of Sree Narayana Guru. I have received ecstasy whenever I had visited Sivagiri Mutt which has given me immense happiness", he added.
