Religious hatred is something we have grown up with. Segregation and discrimination based on differences in terms of faith, caste and creed have made our nation bleed and the wound is still afresh. For the longest time India and Pakistan have seen each other as rivals and the government in spite of taking minor initiatives here and there have marvelously failed to improve relations between the two nations – two nations that were one, two nations that are brothers. What is the basis of the rivalry during a cricket match? Or the thousands of memes that flood our news feed every day?
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The Rajasthani government is finally stepping up to compensate for the damage done and their initiative is a commendable one, here is why. India and Pakistan have gained independence with a difference of one day. Shahdat Ko Salaam is an occasion that will be observed by the citizens of Rajasthan where people from four districts of the state will form a 650 km long human chain that will expand across the Indo Pak border and will traverse these four districts namely, Jaisalmer, Sri Ganganagar, Bikaner and Barmer. Rajasthan’s weather condition is no big secret but the government has taken sufficient measures to ensure the smooth sailing of this initiative.
This, however, is less an initiative and more a celebration – the human chain will be accompanied by dances and songs and cheer. People will also reportedly hold onto ropes attached with balloons and confetti and the like. Looks like a house party just on a huge scale. Elaborate measures have been taken by the administration. They are definitely not letting go of such an opportunity. This is also a way for the people to pay respect to the army by participating in such a massive human endeavor.
Image Credit: Twitter
The largest part of the chain happens to pass through Jaisalmer and for the very same reason the BSF, Air force and army will also be implicated in this regard, to take charge in case things get out of control. Provisions for refreshments and drinks have also been made. The medical department is also providing assistance as the participants are from diverse age groups.
A great endeavor indeed, we hope this is a grand success!
