Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 26: Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar on Monday emphasised that India is not a theocratic state but an inclusive republic that embraces diversity while preserving its cultural essence. Addressing the Republic Day parade at the Central Stadium here, the Governor said India has upheld democratic values for 76 years and is today recognised globally as the “mother of democracy”.
However, the Republic Day समारोह also reflected the continuing standoff between the Governor and the LDF government. While Arlekar hoisted the national flag, inspected the parade and received the ceremonial salute, he departed from convention by not reading the printed speech prepared by the state government in consultation with Raj Bhavan. The deviation was seen as politically significant in the backdrop of the ongoing constitutional dispute between the two sides.
The tension follows a recent controversy over the Governor’s address at the beginning of the Assembly session, where Arlekar had made unilateral changes to the policy speech. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan later read out the omitted portions in the Assembly, triggering a sharp political and constitutional debate. The Lok Bhavan has since sought clarification and requested the Assembly Speaker to provide the text and video footage of the speech delivered by the Chief Minister.
Despite the political undercurrents, the Governor used the occasion to highlight Kerala’s achievements and cultural contributions. Expressing pride in the state’s performance in the Padma Awards, he described the Padma Vibhushan conferred on former Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan as a moment of great honour for Kerala. He also welcomed the Padma Vibhushan awarded to Justice K.T. Thomas and P. Narayanan.
Congratulating actor Mammootty and SNDP Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan on receiving the Padma Bhushan, the Governor said their recognition reflected Kerala’s cultural influence. He also praised Padma Shri awardees Kalamandalam Vimala Menon and Devaki Amma.
Recalling the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram”, Arlekar traced Kerala’s civilisational legacy from Adi Shankaracharya to Sree Narayana Guru. Emphasising cooperative federalism, he urged the Centre and states to work together to achieve the vision of a “Developed India” by 2047, calling for unity, shared vision and democratic participation.
