Author: CNN-IBN
Publication: IBNLive.com
Date: September 13, 2011
URL: http://ibnlive.in.com/news/gujarat-cm-narendra-modis-open-letter-to-citizens/183783-53.html
In an open letter to the people of Gujarat,
Chief Minister Narendra Modi on Teusday vowed to begin a fast this Saturday
as part of a 'sadbhavna mission' movement for the prosperity and welfare of
the state.
In his letter, Modi claimed that the Supreme
Court has exonerated him in post-Godhra cases and hit out at those who criticised
him for the 2002 Gujarat riots over the past ten years.
Here's the full text of the letter:
My Dear sisters and brothers,
My Salutations!
Yesterday, the Apex Court of the country delivered
an important judgment regarding the 2002 communal riots in Gujarat.
Everyone is interpreting this judgment in
his own way. For political analysts it has one meaning and for legal experts
it has another meaning. Someone is interpreting it as victory someone else
as defeat. Everyone has his own point of view.
One thing is apparent from the Supreme Court's
judgment. The unhealthy environment created by the unfounded and false allegations
made against me and Government of Gujarat, after 2002 riots, has come to an
end. For the past ten years, it has become fashionable to defame me and the
State of Gujarat. These elements who could not tolerate any positive development
of Gujarat have not left any stone unturned to defame Gujarat. It is difficult
to say whether this campaign of defamation will stop even after the judgment
of the Supreme Court. But one thing is certain that the credibility of those
who have been spreading lies and defaming Gujarat has come to its lowest ebb.
The people of this country will not trust such elements anymore.
After 2002, Gujarat has not spared any effort
to march towards peace, harmony and progress even amidst false propaganda,
lies, conspiracies and allegations.
'Six crore Gujaratis' has not remained merely
a word. It has become the mantra of unity and human endeavor. Every citizen
of Gujarat has internalized peace, harmony and development. Gujarat has experienced
an unparalleled phase of peace, harmony, and development in the last decade.
Gujarat is committed to march forward on this path only.
There is a famous saying, "Hate is never
conquered by hate." The real strength of our country is its unity and
harmony. Unity in diversity is the defining feature of India. It is our responsibility
to strengthen unity in our social life. We have got an excellent opportunity
to proceed with a positive attitude. Hence, let us come together and contribute
in enhancing the dignity of Gujarat. I humbly submit before you that, as part
of this responsibility to strengthen social harmony and brotherhood, I am
thinking of starting a movement of "Sadbhavana Mission."
As part of this Sadbhavana Mission, I have
resolved to fast for three days from, Saturday, the 17th September 2011. My
fast will conclude on 19th September. I deeply believe that this fast will
further strengthen Gujarat's environment of peace, unity and harmony.
Sadbhavana Mission is completely dedicated
to the society and the nation. I hope that, our effort to take Gujarat to
new heights of development through peace, unity and harmony will contribute
immensely in the progress and development of the nation as well.
Always at your service,
Narendra Modi
