Kakkavayal: Marking the 77th Republic Day of India, the Kerala Catholic Youth Movement (KCYM) Mananthavady Diocese organized a solemn Republic Day observance and brave soldiers’ commemoration at the Kakkavayal Memorial Hall. The programme paid tribute to the soldiers who laid down their lives while defending the nation’s borders, reaffirming the collective responsibility to uphold the ideals for which they fought.
As part of the observance, a wreath-laying ceremony was held at the memorial, followed by a remembrance meeting that reflected on the sacrifices of the armed forces and the constitutional values they protect. The event underscored the link between the sacrifices of soldiers and the rights and freedoms enjoyed by citizens under the Constitution.
Presiding over the meeting, KCYM Mananthavady Diocese President Nikhil Choodiyankal stressed that the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution must be preserved and defended at all times. He called upon the youth to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the growing challenges to constitutional principles and democratic values, reminding them that silence in the face of injustice weakens the foundations of the Republic.
Speakers highlighted that soldiers stand guard at the nation’s frontiers to ensure that every citizen can live with freedom, equality and justice as envisioned in the Constitution. In a context where these rights are increasingly questioned, youth representatives noted that indifference or inaction would amount to a betrayal of the sacrifices made by the country’s brave soldiers.
The commemorative meeting chaired by Nikhil Choodiyakal attended by KCYM Mananthavady Diocese Vice President Vindhya Padinjarel, General Secretary Robin Biju Vadakkekkara, Secretary Divya Pattasseriyil Diocese Director Fr. Santo Ambalathara, Animator Sister Rose Tom S.A.B.S., Diocese Syndicate Member and Kalpetta Region Director Fr. Vinoy Kalapurackal, Kalpetta Region President Albin Eeravelil, and Diocese Syndicate Member Arpitha.