Thiruvananthapuram/Kochi: The panel headed by Vellapally Natesan and Punnala Sreekumar, general secretaries of SNDP and Kerala Pulayar Mahasabha respectively, is all set to launch full scale campaign to uphold renaissance values across the state between March 10 and 15. The process of setting up district units of Renaissance Protection Committee is complete,
The first in the series of campaign meetings will be held in Thiruvananthapuram and Palakkad on March 10. Though the Left parties would not be taking part in these meetings under their banners, a direction was issued to cadres to participate in district events in big numbers to ensure the success of the campaign.
With the LDF government anticipating UDF-BJP-RSS to scale up their attack on Sabar-imala issue on the eve of polls, it is banking heavily on the Renaissance Protection Committee to effectively neutralise the negative propaganda. The Sangh Parivar and Congress had targeted the Left saying that atheists and non believers care a damn for sentiments of devotees. It is in this context that the LDF is keen to take community, caste and religious organisations on board to counter their propaganda.
Moreover, with Nair Service Society (NSS) attacking CPM leadership and government and the BJP–Congress backing it, the LDF is open to support from all possible quarters. Left leaders say it was because of the timely intervention and emphasis on Renai-ssance movement that Sangh Parviar and BJP attempts to rally Hindu communities for their ‘divisive' agenda could not succeed. While the NSS had organised nama japa ghosha yatras, the SNDP, KPMS and other Dalit outfits did not take to streets much to the relief of LDF. The Left also succeeded in institutionalising the mass movement built around Renaissance campaign.
Coming as it is soon after the LDF mass rally in Thrissur to mark the culmination of the northern and southern jatha on March 2, the Left leaders expect the campaign to create a positive atmosphere.
The LDF government had also inducted religious minorities in the committee earlier this month to give it a secular look. Besides mirroring the cultural tradition of the state, the campaign will also give a clarion call that no force will be allowed to destroy the unity and brother hood of the people of the state.
Women’s conclave March 8
State Women’s Com-mission will organise a mega Vanitha Sam-gamam (women’s conclave) with the message ‘march forward with courage’ on March 7, ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8 in Kochi.
Over 3,000 women from various sections of society, regardless of their political affiliation, will participate in the conclave, said WC chairperson M.C. Josephine.
The conference to be inaugurated by minister K.K. Shylaja will be held from 2 to 7 pm at Ernakulam Town Hall. Ten women who emerged fighters by attaining success in various sectors braving all odds will be honoured. Cultural programme, magic show and painting expo will also be organised.
