Chandigarh, September 22: Today children of Bal Panchayat of Bapu Dham Colony invited American Gandhi Bernie Meyer to visit their area and see the living condition of poor people in Chandigarh-the modern face of India. This Bal panchayat of young change makers is supported under a ‘Project Bridge’ by Yuvsatta and Oxfam India.
Children’s told Bernie that in their slum settlement over 15000 people have access to just 80-90 toilet seats-which means only one toilet for over 150 people , problems of drinking water, living conditions are pathetic and he as Gandhi should suggest them what to do! They also mentioned that in the past they have met the local Councillor and Commissioner of Municipal Corporation to sort out these, but nothing tangible is done till date.
Bernie Meyer assured his full support and guided them to enroll more and more people in their drive and approach other responsible officials, people’s representatives to sort out the issue. And if still the problem persists, they can take guidance from Gandhiji’s way of Satyagraha.
He asked them to go for good education and skill building to face challenges and avail opportunities of modern world. He also told the young people to lead a healthy life and stay away from drugs and other intoxicants. He said we can learn from Gandhi, though he is no longer there to guide us but his ideas of empowering the ‘have-not’ segment of society are more relevant than ever.
Children’s of Bal Panchayat also presented solo & group songs and dances on the occasion. Pramod Sharma, Coordinator, Yuvsatta said that they’ll be taking these issue of ‘Combating inequalities’ in their upcoming 7th International Youth Peace Fest in the city, where youngsters from around 40 countries of the world will try to come out with ‘new ideas of change’.