The International Day of Non-Violence is a strong affirmation of India’s long-standing belief that no cause can justify acts of violence and that humanism shall always prevail, said Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma.
He made the comment while speaking at an event on Monday, marking the non-violence day.
The International Day of Non-Violence is observed on October 2, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence.
According to General Assembly resolution A/RES/61/271 of 15 June 2007, which established the commemoration, the International Day is an occasion to "disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness". The resolution reaffirms "the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence" and the desire "to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence".
This year marks the 154th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
The high commissioner on Monday visited the historic Gandhi Ashram in Noakhali and offered floral tributes to the Father of the Indian nation.
He also addressed a seminar hosted by the Gandhi Ashram Trust on the theme “Gandhiji’s quest for peace and harmony in Noakhali and its relevance in the contemporary world."
In his address, High Commissioner Verma noted that Gandhiji's conviction in the innate goodness of humanity and his unwavering faith in peace and non-violence as a force for change remain as relevant today as they were during India’s freedom struggle.
He highlighted that Gandhiji's historic visit to Noakhali in 1946 exemplified the extraordinary power of dialogue, empathy, and understanding, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
His unyielding dedication to the principles of non-violence and communal harmony not only brought solace to Noakhali, but also left an indelible mark on the conscience of humanity.
The high commissioner also pointed out that the commemoration of International Day of Non-Violence on Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary every year reaffirms the universality of the values of peace, non-violence, tolerance and understanding, and highlights their relevance in dealing with the current global challenges such as terrorism.
He also visited the museum at the Gandhi Ashram showcasing memorabilia associated with Gandhiji’s stay at the Noakhali in 1946 and encouraged the Gandhi Ashram Trust to forge regular cooperation and exchanges with various institutions devoted to Gandhian studies in India.