India is marching ahead in two fields, technology and corruption, said renowned writer T. Padmanabhan in an apparent hint at the all-round technological advancement especially in the light of Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) feat of putting into orbit a record 104 polar satellites through launch of PSLV 37 on Wednesday and the Supreme Court’s verdict in the disproportionate asset case against AIADMK leader V.K. Sasikala.

The writer was addressing a function to mark the formal inauguration of the two-day off-stage events of the Kannur University Kalotsavam at Lal Bahadur Shastri (LBS) Engineering College at Povval near here.

Referring to the ongoing Assembly polls in four States, Mr. Padmanabhan alleged that many candidates were accused or convicted in murder and criminal cases and the voters are left with no option but to elect them as their representatives.

Terming former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri a sincere and honest political leader, he said the present generation often failed to remember him. Very few knew that LBS, a leading engineering college which is hosting the five-day event, is named after the former prime minister. Similarly, not many know that the busy MG roads in leading cities in the country are named after Mahatma Gandhi.

Artist Puninchithaya, who hails from the district, left the audience in awe by painting a portrait using a knife at the function. He said the new generation was giving a go-by to the rich and varied cultural traditions of the country. Artists should be given as much importance as poets and writers, P.V. Shaji Kumar, writer, said at the function. Mr. Shaji added that while in Kozhikode, people moved about freely during late hours, Kasaragod wears a deserted look. The situation could be restored only by staging arts and cultural events in the communally sensitive areas in the district.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Thiruvananthapuram / by Staff Reporter / Kasargod – February 16th, 2017