Wed Sep 25 17:55:34 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka CM Lauds Kerala-Karnataka Unity, Presents Aryadan Award to K.C. Venugopal

**Nilambur, September 25, 2024:** Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday presented the Aryadan Award to All India Congress Committee general secretary K.C. Venugopal in Nilambur, Kerala, marking the second death anniversary of former Congress leader Aryadan Mohammed. The award, instituted by the Aryadan Mohammed Foundation, recognizes the best politician.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Siddaramaiah highlighted the shared anti-communalism sentiment between Kerala and Karnataka, urging the younger generation to learn from Aryadan Mohammed’s secular life. He compared Kerala’s Sree Narayana Guru and Karnataka’s Basavanna, emphasizing their unified message against communalism despite using different language.

The Chief Minister lauded Mr. Venugopal for his tireless work in reviving the Congress at the national level. He credited Venugopal’s advice for his successful political comeback in 2018, stating it was a turning point in his career. Mr. Siddaramaiah also acknowledged the inspiration Mr. Venugopal provided for the five guarantee projects implemented by the Karnataka government, aimed at social justice and public welfare.

Accepting the award, which includes ₹1 lakh in cash and a citation, Mr. Venugopal expressed his heartfelt gratitude and praised the Karnataka government for their support in the search operation for a Malayali truck driver in Shirur, Karnataka. He described their initiative as exemplary for the entire nation.

Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan presided over the function, while former KPCC president Ramesh Chennithala delivered the Aryadan Mohammed memorial lecture. The event was also attended by several other prominent leaders, including AICC general secretary Deepa Dasmunsi and various MPs and MLAs.

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