Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (DV)
Mangaluru, Nov 8: A newly constructed bus shelter in memory of George Fernandes by George Fernandes Abhimani Balaga was inaugurated at Karambar here on Sunday.
Michael B Fernandes, brother of George Fernandes, inaugurated the newly constructed Karambar school bus stop.
Speaking during this occasion, Michael Fernandes said, "George Fernandes in his political career never discriminated against the people on the lines of caste, creed, community or party. Without thinking of political gains, he invested himself in the service of the people and society."
Recalling the educational background of George Fernandes, Michael said, "George Fernandes completed his high school education from St Aloysius College. Later he moved to St Mary's (Minor) Seminary on Residency Road, Bengaluru and then spent one year at St Peter's (Major) Seminary in Malleswaram."
George joined Socialist Party and Labour Movement in Mangaluru under the influence of freedom fighter and socialist Ammembal Balappa and following which he moved to Mumbai, his brother Michael said.
He also recalled that George Fernandes had to remain underground during the time of emergency, for 11 months. Later he was arrested from a Church in Kolkata in 1976.
Michael said George Fernandes during the 'Labour movement in India' led 14 lac people at a strike in 1974. He also spoke about several ministerial portfolios held by George, including communication, industry, railways, and defence.
"The bus stop constructed by the George Fernandes Abhimani Balaga in memory of George Fernandes is the greatest gift given to George Fernandes," he added.
Michael B Fernandes also recalled the contribution of George Fernandes to the country as Minister for Railways, Defense and Industries.
MLA Umanath Kotian said, "George Fernandes started a labour movement to provide justice to the suppressed class. Atal Bihari Vajpayee and George Fernandes both were great leaders."
Kotian also explained how politics was different during those days and compared it with the present scenario. "Nowadays, politicians are only contemplating how to mint money," he added.
"It is because of perseverance and the hard work of George Fernandes, the dream Konkan Railways project was realised," Kotian said. Adding to this, Kotian said that people should always remember the contribution of George Fernandes for the country.
Stating that he is an admirer of George Fernandes, Congress leader Mithun Rai said, "To keep the contribution of George Fernandes alive, there is need to install a permanent statue of George Fernandes in Mangaluru, as it is his native city."
Thus, in this regard taking MLA Umananth Kotian into confidence, he will meet the chief minister, for the installation of a statue of George Fernandes in Mangaluru, Rai mentioned.
The Congress leader also pointed out that George Fernandes had proved to the entire world that India is a powerful country by carrying a nuclear test in Pokhran.
Taluk panchayat member Supritha Shetty, president of George Fernandes Abhimani Balaga Jaganath Salian, vice-president Walter Monteiro, secretary Gratian Wilfred Mathais and others were present.