Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed a gathering of the Chitpavan Brahmin community in Nashik on June 1. He emphasised the need to eliminate caste-based discrimination while acknowledging the enduring presence of caste identities in Indian society.
Speaking at the event organised by the Chitpavan Brahmin community, CM Fadnavis lauded the community’s historic contributions to social reform and national development.
“It is often said that the caste system should not exist, but the truth is that caste never really disappears. It would be more appropriate to say that caste-based discrimination should not exist. It is our responsibility to eliminate this discrimination. To remove this discrimination, we have to face many challenges,” he said.
Fadnavis further praised the community for its inclusive approach, and said, “In this event organised by the Chitpavan Brahmin community, I want to say that this community has never thought only of itself. The work done by them in the fields of social reform and development has been beneficial to everyone.”
Highlighting the importance of social unity, the Maharashtra CM said, “While strengthening our own community, we have also contributed to the welfare of other communities. Regardless of our individual identities, we are all Hindus. Our Prime Minister has also given the slogan ‘Ek hain to safe hain’. What does this mean? It means we are all followers of Sanatan Dharma and must be one. We must pass on this spirit of unity to the coming generations…”
CM Fadnavis also spoke about the Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027 in Nashik and Trimbakeshwar and said detailed preparations are in progress.
“A meeting was organised in relation to the Kumbh Mela of Nashik and Trimbakeshwar, in which the 13 major Akharas were also present. We discussed the event in the presence of all the Mahants, saints, priests… This time the fair is going to be long, so people will get to see many important ‘Amrit Snan’ dates and holy festivals…,” CM Fadnavis told reporters.
He also said that the government has come up with a plan to ensure the cleanliness of the Godavari River.
“A plan has also been prepared to ensure that our Godavari Maa flows clean and uninterrupted… Works worth Rs 2,000 crores are in the pipeline. Overall, preparations have been made here so that a divine and grand fair is held,” the CM said.
(with inputs from ANI)
